Press Release: EU/Morocco fisheries negotiations – Fischler ‘I regret that agreement could not be reached’

After two days of intense negotiations in February 2001, Morocco and the European Commission were unable to reach an agreement, particularly on the financial compensation for future fisheries cooperation. Franz Fischler, EU Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development and Fisheries, said that he regretted Morocco was unable to accept the financial offer. Progress was made regarding the number of EU vessels, the obligatory landings, fishing zones and biological rest periods. Mr Fischler said that he would report back to EU Member States following which the Moroccan Fisheries Minister would visit Brussels to meet with him.