Morocco: Current Issues


 

Publication Date: December 2008

Publisher: Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Author(s):

Research Area: Government

Type:

Abstract:

The Bush Administration views Morocco as a moderate Arab regime, an ally against terrorism, and a free trade partner. Morocco has made democratic advances, but King Mohammed VI retains ultimate power. Since 9/11, Moroccan expatriates have been implicated in international terrorism, and Morocco has suffered terror attacks. Counter terror measures may be setting back progress in human rights. Morocco's foreign policy focuses largely on Europe, particularly France and Spain, yet its ties to the United States are getting closer. This report will be updated as developments warrant. See also CRS Report RS21464, Morocco-U.S. Free Trade Agreement, and CRS Report RS20962, Western Sahara: The United Nations Shifts Course.