Brazil hails Morocco s return to African Union

Rabat Feb 27 (IANS/MAP) Brazil has commended the return of Morocco to the African Union (AU) which it said is likely to strengthen dialogue and cooperation among African countries.

Morocco s presence within the AU will contribute to strengthening dialogue and cooperation ties binding the community of African countries said Brazil s Foreign Ministry in a statement.

Brazil also reaffirmed its determination to continue to work with Morocco to promote the bonds of friendship between the two countries.

Morocco joined the AU in January after a 33-year gap. The country left the AU s predecessor the Organisation of African Unity in 1984 after the body recognised the independence of Moroccan-occupied Western Sahara.

--IANS
soni/dg