Morocco: A Key Military Partner with Valuable Expertise for NATO

Sunday 06 April 2025 - 08:00

By: Zahouani Ilham

Morocco: A Key Military Partner with Valuable Expertise for NATO

Javier Colomina, NATO's Deputy Assistant Secretary General and Special Representative for the Southern Neighborhood, recently emphasized Morocco’s significant military capabilities and expertise, describing them as assets from which NATO can greatly benefit.

In a video interview with the Spanish newspaper Agenda Pública, Colomina noted that over the past two to three years, Morocco has shown a stronger willingness to deepen cooperation with NATO compared to other countries in the region. He referred to Morocco as a “distinguished and active partner,” underlining NATO’s intent to further strengthen this strategic relationship.

Colomina highlighted the mutual advantages of the partnership, pointing out that NATO seeks to draw on Morocco’s experience in dealing with regional security threats. In return, Morocco could gain from NATO’s expertise in leadership, command and control, military training, strategic planning, and interoperability.

He stressed the importance of building a relationship rooted in shared interests, stating, “What matters is to create a partnership that benefits both sides.” When asked about the potential for Southern Neighborhood countries to join NATO, Colomina clarified that the current focus is on enhancing political dialogue and practical cooperation with existing partners, regardless of membership status.

He also mentioned that numerous African nations are currently exploring ways to strengthen their ties with the alliance.

Colomina visited Rabat in October 2024, where he met with Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita. During their discussions, Colomina described Morocco as an “indispensable player” in regional security and a “highly important partner” for NATO, particularly praising the country’s counterterrorism efforts.

Additionally, in April 2024, Admiral Rob Bauer, Chair of the NATO Military Committee, lauded Morocco’s contributions to joint military exercises, especially in areas such as counterterrorism, irregular migration control, and maritime security.

Since being designated a Major Non-NATO Ally in 2004, Morocco has maintained a strong and reliable security partnership with the alliance.