In a joint statement that concluded a summit held in Granada (Spain) on Sunday, March 7, 2010, the European Union and Morocco reiterated their "commitment to create a common economic area based on international standards governing the European Economic Area",
 
The purpose of this summit - the first since the EU has granted "advanced status" to Morocco in October 2008 - was to lay the foundation for this contract which makes Morocco a privileged partner of the EU-27, Econostrum.info reported.

The summit ended with an "operational agenda, which includes further negotiations on the liberalization of trade and services, while waiting for a more detailed free trade agreement in the next future. The EU has also committed to strengthening its financial support for the implementation of the projects selected in the advanced status. Moreover, an agreement providing for Morocco's participation in European programs "in several sectors" will be signed soon.
 
In return, European leaders put on the table the human rights issue, particularly in Western Sahara. European Council President, Herman Van Rompuy (pictured) has said that Europe wants to see some progress as for the respect for fundamental freedoms and human rights, so as these rights are guaranteed to all citizens."

In the picture: EU Council President Herman Van Rompuy