Text tabled : A7-0023/2012

  Vital Moreira (S&D), in writing. – (PT) I voted for the agreement between the EU and Morocco concerning the liberalisation of trade in agricultural and fishery products because I consider it a mutually beneficial agreement. The alleged negative impact on European farmers is being grossly exaggerated. Without forgetting the benefits that the agreement will bring for European exports, it is important to bear in mind that it provides for several safeguard clauses – quotas, prices, etc. – which limit the possible negative impact of Moroccan imports. Moreover, I believe that the issue of Western Sahara has been satisfactorily resolved through clear commitments made by the Moroccan Government and the Commission. Finally, it is necessary to step up the political dimension of enhanced cooperation with Morocco, as a sign of EU support for political and constitutional developments towards democratic transition in that country.