Legislative elections in 2001 promise to test the new democracy. Heavy reliance on agriculture, livestock and low value commodities for exports does make the economy vulnerable to sudden external shocks. Morocco is lobbying hard to be accepted into the EU and as such is implementing policies that will favour such a move. A stumbling block is the slow movement on the referendum on the Western Sahara, slated for 2000, owing to disputes over the voter's roll. Economic Outlook Morocco has been making steady progress towards a more balanced economy for some time now.
Growth is likely to continue at a steady pace.
International sentiment is once again swinging away from Sudan as evidence of massive bombing of civilian targets is corroborated. A decision to build an arms factory with the oil wealth could lead to more concrete pressure on the government, although Khartoum has successfully resisted international pressure in the past. Regional diplomatic overtures have proved successful in recent times and has strengthened the government's hand. Economic Outlook Canadian exploitation of Sudan's oil wealth continues apace despite widespread condemnation. It is unlikely that the general economy or populace will benefit significantly from the boon as the government absorbs these finances into the war effort.