EU/Morocco Galileo Agreement

The European Union and Morocco have formally signed an agreement for co-operation on the European satellite radio navigation program, Galileo. The agreement covers a number of areas of co-operation, including joint activities in the field of scientific research and training, industrial co-operation, trade and market development, standards, certification and regulatory measures.

The agreement was signed following intensive exchanges since formal negotiations started in April 2005. While the agreement paves the way for Morocco's active participation in the Galileo program, it also represents a great opportunity for Galileo to become established in the western Mediterranean region.

Commission vice president Jacques Barrot declared: “We are really pleased to count Morocco as a partner in satellite navigation. The country has the potential to exploit Galileo’s technology, and we plan to jointly develop activities for applications which will not only benefit citizens but also increase safety and efficiency in many sectors.”

(Source: Telematics Update)