RABAT, Morocco

Morocco’s national carrier will launch a direct air route between Casablanca and the Israeli city of Tel Aviv as of March 13.

In a statement on Monday, Royal Air Maroc said four flights will be operated weekly at the beginning and will shortly reach five flights per week.

"This new air route comes in response to the aspirations of the Moroccan community residing in Israel, which has strong and solid relations with its country of origin," the statement said.

The airline said the route also aims "to facilitate movement between the two countries for all Moroccan travelers and businessmen."

The Moroccan move came as Israeli Minister of Economy and Industry Orna Barbivai arrived in Rabat on Sunday for talks with Moroccan officials.

On Monday, the two countries signed an agreement in the economic field, with the aim of enhancing bilateral trade cooperation and joint investments.

On Dec. 10, 2020, Morocco and Israel announced the resumption of diplomatic relations after they were suspended in 2000 following the outbreak of the second Palestinian Intifada.

*Writing by Mahmoud Barakat in Ankara