LOC18:55
15:55 GMT
BRUSSELS, June 19 (KUNA) -- The European Union (EU) Sunday welcomed the
King of Morocco's announcement of the main elements of the new constitution
that will be submitted to referendum on July 1.
"It is a significant step and signals a clear commitment to democracy and
respect for human rights," said EU High Representative Catherine Ashton and EU
enlargement Commissioner Stefan Fulle in a joint statement.
They noted that the proposed constitution touches on key elements of reform
and modernization, such as the separation of powers, the strengthening of the
government's role, the independence of the judiciary, regionalisation and
equality of rights between men and women.
"Once fully implemented, it would be a major step forward in the process of
reforms already initiated by Morocco. It is now for Moroccan citizens,
politicians and civil society to express their legitimate aspirations and
decide," said the statement.
The proposed constitutional reform is in line with the ambitions of the
Advanced Status in the relations between Morocco and the EU and the EU ready
to support Morocco's efforts to implement such far-reaching reforms, concluded
the statement. (end)
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