US ambassador highlights strong defense partnership with Morocco

Yesterday 10:32

By: Azzat Manal

US ambassador highlights strong defense partnership with Morocco

US Ambassador to Morocco Duke Buchan has highlighted the strength of military and defense cooperation between Washington and Rabat during the Marrakech International Air Show, where American and Moroccan partners gathered to discuss their longstanding strategic ties.

The US diplomatic mission in Morocco said Buchan welcomed the opportunity to meet American and Moroccan partners during a reception held on the sidelines of the aerospace and defense exhibition. The event brought together senior officials and military representatives, including US General Lamontagne, Morocco’s Minister Delegate in charge of the National Defense Administration Abdeltif Loudyi, and General Mohamed Berrid, Inspector General of the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces and Commander of the Southern Zone.

According to the US Embassy, the reception provided an opportunity to highlight the close military cooperation that has developed between the two countries, as well as their established defense partnership.

Buchan also emphasized the shared commitment of Morocco and the United States to strengthening regional security through continued military and defense cooperation. His remarks come as the Marrakech Air Show brings together major international defense and aerospace companies, government officials and military delegations.

Morocco and the United States have maintained close security relations for decades, with cooperation covering areas such as military training, interoperability, counterterrorism and regional security. Joint exercises and exchanges between the two countries’ armed forces have also contributed to strengthening operational coordination.

The Marrakech International Air Show has become an important platform for defense and aerospace cooperation, offering participating countries and companies an opportunity to showcase military technologies, explore industrial partnerships and engage with decision-makers.

The presence of senior American and Moroccan officials at the 2026 edition underscores the importance both countries attach to their defense relationship at a time when security challenges across North Africa and the wider region continue to shape international cooperation.

The exhibition, held in Marrakech from October 7 to 10, also highlights Morocco’s expanding aerospace and defense ecosystem and its growing engagement with international industry leaders. For Washington and Rabat, the event provides another opportunity to reinforce existing ties while exploring new areas of technological and military cooperation.