French Interior Minister Praises Excellent Security Cooperation with Morocco

French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin praised the excellent security cooperation between France and Morocco during his official visit to Rabat on Monday.

Meeting with his Moroccan counterpart Abdelouafi Laftit, Darmanin emphasized the deep and multidimensional bilateral relationship between the two countries, particularly in the areas of security and migration.

Darmanin expressed appreciation for Morocco's vital role in securing the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games through its close cooperation in intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism, and fighting organized crime. "Without the support of Morocco's judicial police and intelligence services, France would be in greater danger," Darmanin stated, highlighting the importance of Moroccan assistance in protecting France from terrorism.

The two ministers discussed ways to further strengthen security cooperation, focusing on countering common threats from terrorist groups and criminal networks operating in the Sahel and Sahara region. Laftit outlined Morocco's comprehensive security approach, which combines field operations, information exchange, and preventive measures against extremism.

Darmanin commended Morocco's security efforts, describing the country as a factor of regional peace and stability and a reliable partner. He also thanked Moroccan security services for their operational and logistical support in preparations for the Paris Olympics.

Why this matters: The strong security partnership between France and Morocco underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating terrorism and ensuring the safety of major global events. Morocco's proactive approach to security challenges positions it as a key ally for France and contributes to regional stability.

The meeting between Darmanin and Laftit reaffirmed the strong strategic partnership between Morocco and France, which covers various fields including security, migration, and preparations for upcoming international events. Darmanin's visit is part of ongoing efforts to renew and modernize the French-Moroccan relationship, building on the visions of King Mohammed VI and President Emmanuel Macron to forge an exceptional partnership based on friendship and mutual interests.

Key Takeaways

• France and Morocco have strong security cooperation, including intelligence sharing and counter-terrorism.
• Morocco's security support is crucial for France's safety, especially for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
• The two countries collaborate to counter threats from terrorist groups and criminal networks in the Sahel and Sahara.
• Morocco is praised as a factor of regional peace and stability and a reliable partner for France.
• The meeting reaffirmed the strategic partnership between Morocco and France, covering security, migration, and international events.