By Kevin McCauley
The Moroccan American Center for Policy, a non-profit initiative of King Mohammed VI to improve ties with the U.S., has hired Dutko Grayling Worldwide through the remainder of 2011.
The unit of Britain’s Huntsworth is to develop a strategic communications program, assist in thought leadership, handle media relations and identify third-party sources to promote the Center’s agenda, according to the agreement between the two parties.
The Center’s mission to keep U.S. government officials and opinion makers informed about developments in Morocco and the role played by the kingdom in political developments in North Africa and the Middle East.
The contract, which went into effect May 16, is worth a $10K monthly retainer. It includes a non-compete clause that forbids Dutko Grayling staffers from working for Morocco’s rival Algeria and the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic. Morocco is at odds with SADR over control of neighboring Western Sahara, a former colony of Spain.
The non-compete runs for one year following termination of the contract with the Center.
Dutko Grayling reports to Jean AbiNader, head of the Center’s communications team and frequent source (BBC, CNN, Reuters) for input on U.S./Arab relations.
The firm also represents King Mohammad’s economic development arm, Moroccan American Trade & Investment Council.
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