Envoy points to gateway between civilizations

Morocco has served as an important link to the West down the ages, yet most Chinese know very little about the country, and many even consider it backward, says China's Ambassador to Morocco, Sun Shuzhong.

But many of the earlier achievements of ancient China, such as making paper and gunpowder, were introduced to Europe via Morocco. Chinese tea and porcelain reached Europe through the country and also left an indelible mark on the country's culture, he says.

"Chinese business people do not understand the Moroccan market or its investment environment. In most cases, they are unaware of what Morocco can offer compared with other African countries."