European Parliament
Nikolaos Chountis  (GUE/NGL ),
in writing.
(EL)
Following efforts to execute a fisheries agreement, I again voted against the participation of the Kingdom of Morocco in Union programmes. The situation in the Western Sahara was the main reason why I voted against the recommendation. The Union cannot proceed along the lines of ‘business as usual’ and ignore the continuing infringement of international law and the human rights of the Sahrawi by the Kingdom of Morocco. Furthermore, on the pretext of competitiveness and the need for cheap imports of agricultural products and fish in the European market, Moroccan farmers and fishermen have extremely low wages. Finally, I voted against the recommendation, because it does not ensure that crops are grown in accordance with the necessary food safety criteria and respect for the environment and preservation of natural resources.

