Moroccan security forces on Nov. 2 cracked down on pro-independence demonstrations in the Western Sahara capital of Laayoune, Saharawi activists said, the Sahara Press Service reported.

The United States and Morocco launched a strategic dialogue Sept. 13, with U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton saying Washington is looking to Morocco to serve as a leader and model in the region, Middle East Online reported Sept. 14.