Bilateral Agreement between India and Morocco

Why in News?

Recently, Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties (MLAT) agreement was signed between India and Morocco.

• Aim - The Bilateral agreement aims to promote cooperation in the Judicial and legal spheres.
• It facilitates the widest measures of mutual legal assistance in civil and commercial matters in accordance with national laws.
• Assistance under the agreement -The service of summons and other judicial documents or processes;
• The taking of evidence by means of Letters of Request;
• The execution of judicial judgments (in the case of the Kingdom of Morocco), decrees (in the case of the Republic of India), settlements, and arbitral awards.
• Key features
  • Exchange of Expertise - Sharing experiences and expertise related to the functioning of the respective Ministries and judicial systems.
  • Legislation Exchange - Mutual sharing of legal publications, bulletins, and legislative materials to enhance legal understanding and cooperation.
  • Capacity Building - Organising symposiums, conferences, and joint courses on various legal issues and applications.
  • Legal Training and Delegation Exchange - Facilitating visits and training opportunities for lawyers and legal experts, including participation in each other’s training programs.
  • Judicial Information Systems - Cooperation in developing national legal information systems and related technological advancements through shared digital practices and tools in justice delivery. 
  • Implementation Mechanism - Formation of a joint coordination committee responsible for planning annual cooperation programs that are practical and within the financial capabilities of both parties.
• Significance - It contribute to institutional strengthening, capacity development, and modernization of legal frameworks, ultimately promoting rule of law and justice cooperation.

Reference

PIB| Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties (MLAT)