JERUSALEM, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The Israeli government has approved a maritime trade cooperation agreement with Morocco, paving the way for its implementation within 30 days, Israeli authorities announced in a statement on Thursday.
The agreement, signed in Moroccan capital Rabat in May 2023, was approved by the Israeli government on Wednesday, according to a statement released by the Israeli Ministry of Transport and Road Safety.
It covers a range of maritime transport issues, including safety, port entry, taxation, dispute resolution, fees, and tariffs. It also enables mutual recognition of each country's maritime documents and ensures equal treatment for the ships and shipping companies of both nations.
This agreement represents another significant step in strengthening relations between Israel and Morocco. The opening of maritime trade and transport routes between the two countries will benefit both economies and create new opportunities for cooperation, Israeli Minister of Transport Miri Regev was quoted as saying.
As part of the agreement, a joint maritime committee will be established to oversee its implementation and address maritime transport-related issues between the two nations.
According to the agreement, implementation will begin 30 days after approval by both governments. While Morocco had already given its approval, Israel delayed its endorsement due to its ongoing multi-front conflict in the Middle East. ■