Defense: Morocco and U.S.A. discuss security cooperation, military readiness

Morocco and the United States, two friends and longstanding allies, are stepping up their military cooperation to counter common regional challenges and international threats.

On Monday, U.S. Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Christopher W. Grady met with Inspector General of the Royal Armed Forces of Morocco Lt. Gen. Belkhir El Farouk at the Pentagon.

“The military leaders discussed items concerning security cooperation, strengthening military readiness, and other items of mutual interest”, said a press release issued by Joint Staff Spokesperson Cmdr. Beth Teach.

“The U.S. and Morocco share a strong bilateral military relationship that contributes to the stability and security of North Africa”, added the statement.

Last month, General Michael Langley, U.S. AFRICOM commander, visited Morocco wherein he met separately with Minister in charge of the National Defense Administration Abdellatif Loudiyi and General Farouk Belkhir.

“It’s clear that the U.S.-Morocco commitment to supporting regional peace and security is stronger than ever”, had Said Gen. Langley after meeting with the two Moroccan officials.

“Our military partnership is built on deep, historic ties that date back to the very founding of the United States. Our discussions today focused on how we can continue to work together on a range of critical security issues and continue to ensure regional stability’’, added the four-star General.