Morocco a model of tolerance: SM

RABAT - MANY countries look upon Morocco as a model of a successful and tolerant Islamic country.

Therefore, it is well-placed to play an active role in using the Asia-Middle East Dialogue process to promote moderation, mutual understanding and a progressive outlook among all nations, said Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong.

He said this in an e-mail interview with Morocco's French-language daily Le Matin, which was published on its front page on Monday.

Speaking to the Singapore media on Wednesday, he added that Morocco can, in particular, 'play a very active role in reaching out to the non-Muslim countries in Asia to tell them what Islam is about'.

'Otherwise some countries and some people may be mistaken that Islam is all about terrorism. It is not,' he said.

Asked how Morocco can learn from Singapore's economic success, SM Goh said that while Singapore is more than happy to share its developmental experiences, the two countries are very different.

'What worked well for Singapore, a city state, may not work for a larger country like Morocco,' he said. It is up to Morocco to draw lessons from Singapore's experiences and determine what is relevant.

He urged Moroccan businessmen to visit Singapore to see what opportunities are available there and in Asia.

He was also asked for his view on Morocco's proposal to grant wider autonomy to Western Sahara, which was annexed by Morocco in 1975.

Singapore supports efforts to find a 'fair and equitable' solution to the long-standing issue, he said.

'The settlement of this issue will promote durable and stable peace in the region,' he said.

Singapore's position on such issues is guided by two key considerations, he said. 'First, it is preferable for any solution to be reached peacefully and by consensus. Second, we place primacy on the observance of international law, agreements and commitments.'

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