Morocco Is Following Its Long-Established Laws

Your editorial "Expelled in Morocco" (July 6) is wrong about Morocco's recent actions to enforce its laws against religious proselytism.

Morocco guarantees its tradition of freedom of worship in its constitution and it applies equally to Muslims, Jews and Christians, people of faith who have lived and worked together for generations. To maintain the balance in its society and protect the public order Moroccan law also prohibits proselytizing.

The repatriation measures affecting some Americans were taken not because they were Christians, but solely because they and others had engaged in proselytism activities clearly forbidden by Morocco's laws. Those regulations put particular emphasis on protecting young children in schools and orphan ages, whose circumstances make them more vulnerable. Similar actions have been enforced recently against Muslims involved in acts of proselytism.

After a thorough investigation, Moroccan authorities were obligated to enforce these laws. Those who want to challenge their repatriations are free to use the legal means at their disposal, including the right to appeal.

At last month's briefing in Congress, Morocco was not given the opportunity to clarify misunderstandings and misinformation about the repatriations. Particularly appalling was one member's comments comparing Morocco's actions with "tactics used by the Nazis." Prominent U.S. Jewish community leaders have condemned these remarks and joined U.S. Christian leaders in expressing praise for Morocco's record of religious tolerance and continuing efforts to guarantee religious freedom for Christians and Jews.

Morocco remains committed to interfaith dialogue, tolerance, freedom of expression, worship and openness.

We have a long, close friendship with America dating back more than 200 years to U.S. independence, when Morocco was the first country to recognize the United States, which it did in 1777. The oldest treaty still in force that the U.S. has with another country is the 1786 treaty of friendship with Morocco. We continue to welcome all visitors who respect our laws and values.

Ambassador Aziz Mekouar

Embassy of

The Kingdom of Morocco Washington