'Morocco is UK's crucial partner in fight against terrorism'

Rabat, Sep 14 (IANS/MAP) Morocco is a very important partner for the United Kingdom in its fight against terrorism, Thomas Reilly, British Ambassador to the country, has said.

"The United Kingdom appreciates the help provided by Morocco during London's terrorist attacks," Reilly said on the sidelines of the Middle East and North Africa Business Aviation Association (MEBAA) business air show held from September 12-13.

The British diplomat also praised King Mohammed VI and the reforms undertaken during his reign. "In 20 years, Morocco has made extraordinary and impressive progress," he said, noting that Morocco offers enormous opportunities for both tourists and British investors.

In this regard, Reilly said that over 650,000 British tourists visit Morocco each year, adding that the British have spent more than one billion dirhams in Morocco during the first half of this year.

"Tourism is not just about money, it's also about cultural exchanges and rapprochement between the two friendly peoples," Reilly said, adding that relations between Morocco and the United Kingdom are "excellent".

--IANS/MAP

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