Morocco: Expanding Defence Cooperation During Senior Israeli Official’s Visit

02:00

Morocco and Israel have taken stock of their growing defence partnership during a high-level meeting in Rabat, highlighting opportunities to deepen military coordination, strengthen cybersecurity capabilities and develop defence-related industrial cooperation.

On Monday, November 9, 2026, Abdeltif Loudyi, Minister Delegate in charge of National Defence Administration, received Amir Baram, Director General of Israel’s Ministry of Defence, who arrived in Morocco leading a senior delegation. The meeting was held at the headquarters of the National Defence Administration, in accordance with Royal Instructions.

The discussions provided an opportunity for both officials to assess the progress achieved under the bilateral defence cooperation framework and identify areas where further collaboration could deliver tangible results.

Cybersecurity and Military Expertise at the Centre of Discussions

The two sides highlighted several areas covered by their existing legal framework, including the protection of classified military information and equipment, cybersecurity, professional training and the exchange of technical knowledge and expertise.

These areas reflect the increasingly important role of digital security and technological capabilities in modern defence strategies. Strengthening cooperation in these fields could contribute to improving institutional preparedness and facilitating the exchange of specialised military expertise.

Defence Industry Emerges as a Strategic Priority

Beyond existing cooperation mechanisms, the meeting also addressed progress in military equipment procurement, technological development and defence industrial activities.

Particular attention was given to the possibility of building a stronger industrial defence base and expanding cooperation in cybersecurity. These priorities point to a broader ambition to move beyond conventional military exchanges towards more structured technological and industrial partnerships.

The discussions also focused on ways to reinforce the different components of bilateral cooperation and explore new opportunities through existing institutional channels.

Meeting with the Royal Armed Forces Leadership

Amir Baram also held a separate meeting with Lieutenant General Mohammed Berrid, Inspector General of the Royal Armed Forces and Commander of the Southern Zone, at the General Staff headquarters of the Royal Armed Forces.

The meeting focused on the positive momentum in military relations, particularly in capability development, technical cooperation, personnel training and the exchange of operational experience.

Both officials reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the partnership through the implementation of action plans established by the Joint Military Commission.

This commission serves as a platform for dialogue, coordination and the identification of additional areas for cooperation between the two defence institutions.

A Partnership Focused on Long-Term Capabilities

The visit reflects the importance both countries attach to maintaining institutional dialogue and developing their defence relationship. Its agenda, encompassing military training, cybersecurity, technology and industrial development, illustrates the increasingly diversified nature of their cooperation.

The implementation of the agreed action plans will be an important indicator of how this partnership develops, particularly in areas requiring sustained technical investment and long-term coordination.