Morocco-US Alliance Solidified in 20th Edition of African Lion Exercise

Tuesday 21 May 2024 - 14:50

In a display of unwavering collaboration, the 20th edition of the "African Lion" joint military exercise marks two decades of steadfast cooperation between the Royal Armed Forces of Morocco (FAR) and the United States Armed Forces. This extensive multinational endeavor, co-hosted by the two nations from May 20 to May 31, showcases a shared commitment to fostering regional peace and security.

The opening ceremony, held on Monday in Agadir, brought together delegates from 20 participating countries and representatives from NATO. Major General Mohammed Benlouali, South Zone's Chief of Staff, and Major General Todd R. Wasmund jointly presided over the event, unveiling the scenario and activities for this landmark edition of African Lion.

With approximately 7,000 troops involved, this large-scale exercise exemplifies the spirit of mutual trust and dedication to shared values that underpin the Morocco-US alliance. Major General Benlouali emphasized that African Lion 2024 marks two decades of fruitful cooperation, distinguished partnership, and steadfast dedication to upholding peace and security, a testament to the strong bond between the two nations.

Major General Todd R. Wasmund, commanding general of the U.S. Army-Africa Southern Task Force, affirmed Morocco's pivotal role as the cradle of African Lion, expressing gratitude for the FAR's unwavering commitment to this productive 20-year partnership.

Taking place across multiple locations, including Benguerir, Agadir, Tan-Tan, Akka, and Tifnit, African Lion 2024 encompasses a diverse array of activities. These range from tactical land, maritime, and aerial exercises to special forces operations, day-night airborne maneuvers, and operational planning exercises for task force officers. Additionally, the exercise incorporates training in countering weapons of mass destruction and providing medical, surgical, and social services to the local population through a military field hospital.

Serving as a crucial platform for enhancing operational, technical, and procedural interoperability among participating armies, African Lion 2024 offers military executives a valuable opportunity to exchange experiences and combine joint training and knowledge. This year's edition symbolizes the enduring cooperation between the FAR and the U.S. Armed Forces, reflecting the solid historical ties and strategic partnership between the two nations.

In a separate meeting on Monday, Moroccan officers welcomed Celeste Wallander, U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs, and Puneet Talwar, U.S. Ambassador to Morocco. Both parties underscored the strength and durability of the robust ties between the United States and Morocco, expressing a shared desire to further develop these relations in the spirit of friendship, mutual understanding, and shared trust. They also expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the ongoing bilateral military cooperation, particularly the organization of the African Lion joint military exercise.

As the 20th edition of African Lion unfolds, it solidifies the Morocco-US alliance, showcasing a steadfast commitment to regional stability and serving as a testament to the enduring bond between these two nations.