Influential U.S. Senator calls for moving AFRICOM headquarters to Morocco

U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan has called for transferring the headquarters of the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) from Stuttgart, Germany, to Morocco, a major U.S. Ally of the United States in Africa.

The Republican senator (Alaska) made the call during the latest hearing of Gen. Michael Langley by the Senate Armed forces Committee. “Morocco is an impressive strategic ally. It is one of our oldest allies; I think it’s time for the AFRICOM Headquarters to be installed in Africa. I think Morocco is the perfect candidate for hosting this Headquarters”, said Mr. Sullivan.

AFRICOM is responsible for U.S. military operations, including fighting regional conflicts and maintaining military relations with African nations. It coordinates all US Army operations in Africa.

Given the strategic position of Morocco and the high level of military cooperation between Rabat and Washington, many experts and military strategists see the North African Kingdom as the most natural and convenient place for hosting the AFRICOM Headquarters.

The remarks of senator Sullivan come few days after the recent visits paid to Morocco by several Republican and Democrat congressmen to show their support to the country, one of the oldest friends of the United States.

Last October, General Michael Langley visited Morocco. He told the press that “it’s clear that the U.S.-Morocco commitment to supporting regional peace and security is stronger than ever”, and affirmed that the Moroccan-American military partnership is built on deep, historic ties that date back to the very founding of the United States.