LOC17:26
14:26 GMT
BRUSSELS, July 2 (KUNA) -- The European Union Saturday welcomed the
positive outcome of the referendum on the new Constitution in Morocco and
commended the peaceful and democratic spirit surrounding the vote.
"The reforms proposed in it constitute a significant response to the
legitimate aspirations of the Moroccan people and are consistent with
Morocco's Advanced Status with the EU," said EU High Representative Catherine
Ashton and EU enlargement Commissioner Stefan Fulle inj a joint statement.
They noted that the reforms include important commitments to enhancing
democracy and respect for human rights; strengthening separation of powers
notably by increasing the role of parliament and the independence of the
judiciary; advancing regionalisation and enhancing gender equality.
"Now we encourage the swift and effective implementation of this reform
agenda. Moroccan citizens should remain at the centre of this process and the
inclusive dialogue with their representatives should continue and grow
stronger," added the statement.
With almost all the ballots counted in Friday's constitutional referendum,
98.5% of people had voted in favour, according to Moroccan government
officials.(end)
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