Acting upon Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad's proposal, the government will construct a Moroccan Pavillion in the nation's administrative capital of Putrajaya.

According to national news agency Bernama report today, the pavillion will be built in order to boost ties between the two countries. Its purpose is to house, among others, artworks from the African nation.

The report added that building materials for the project will come from the African country.

Foreign Affairs Minister Syed Hamid Albar said the premier proposed the idea after he visited Morocco in April.

"It is in line with efforts to make Putrajaya a federal administrative centre complete with various forms of foreign architecture with the aim of fostering closer cultural and social ties with the countries concerned, " he added.

The minister said that apart from art works, the pavillion will also house other products from Morocco.

Syed Hamid was speaking to reporters after receiving Malaysia's honorary consul in Casablanca, Ahmed Faissel El-Kadiri.

He also presented the consul with his letter of appointment from Yang di-Pertuan Agung Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Putra Jamalullail

Putrajaya covers an area of 4,931 ha and is situated 25km north of Kuala Lumpur.

Breathtaking structures

The administrative capital boast of several breathtaking buildings, such as the Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-haj mosque, which partly sits on a man-made lake.

Foreign architecture is also seen in the 'Isfahan' bridge built with the help of Iranian experts.

Despite the architectural excellence, the construction of the administrative capital came under intense criticism from the opposition which claimed it was a lavish and unnecessary expenditure.

Bearing the brunt of the assault was the premier's official residence which certain quarters claim is valued at RM200 million.

However, Mahathir said the residence did not belong to him alone as it will be occupied by the country's future prime ministers as well.