THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2009
Hilton Akron/Fairlawn

FORMAL EVENING PROGRAM

Morocco and the U.S. — The Historic Alliance in the 21st Century

Wassane Zailachi, Deputy Chief of Mission - Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in Washington, D.C.

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Wassane Zailachi will provide an overview of the liberalization of Moroccan society under King Mohammed VI, successor to the throne in 1999. She will also review the long relationship with the U.S., beginning in 1777 and its strategic importance to both countries in the 21st century.

In 1777, Morocco’s ruler granted American ships free entry to all its ports, a privilege reserved at that time for only major trading partners. A treaty of Peace & Friendship was negotiated in 1787. This remains the longest uninterrupted treaty of the U.S. with another country. Since the Peace Corps introduction into Morocco in 1963, more than 1,000 volunteers have served there. In 2004, Morocco signed a historic free trade agreement with the U.S. That same year Morocco was designated as a Major Non-NATO ally of the U.S. In 2007, Morocco was granted $697.5 million from the Millennium Challenge Compact.

King Mohammed VI continues to work to modernize Morocco’s society and has put in place strong initiatives against terrorism. On May 16, 2003, suicide bombers hit targets in Casablanca. A tough new anti-terrorism strategy was enacted, supported by its citizens and praised by the U.S. State Department.

Mrs. Zailachi will provide an overview of important advances in women’s rights, freedom of the press and the rule of law. Challenges remain, including literacy, job creation and the economy. On a regional basis, Morocco has long been a partner in Arab-Israli peace efforts. More recently, King Mohammed VI has addressed a key issue in the Middle East conflict - the Holocaust. He has called it “one of the most tragic chapters of modern history.” He has endorsed a Paris-based program with the mission of raising awareness of this through informing Muslims throughout the Middle East.

We invite you to attend this important event and extend your welcome and your questions and comments to Mrs. Wassane Zailachi.

Hilton Akron/Fairlawn | map
3180 West Market Street - Fairlawn
330-867-5000
(Across from Summit Mall — Ghent Road Exit from I-77)