(Euronews: 1153 PST, March 10, 2011) France has praised the King of Morocco for announcing wide-ranging reforms it called "important, responsible, and brave." Mohamed VI promised an independent judiciary, a stronger role for parliament and political parties and a programme to devolve more power to local officials.

The speech also appeared to go down well on the streets. "It was a speech of the future and for the future of Morocco, hand in hand with all Moroccans. We are united for the development of the country," said one reveller after the address.