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Politics

US and Morocco Collaborate to Combat WMD Proliferation: Key Summit in Africa

Monday 29 January 2024 - 14:40

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A prominent US delegation is set to convene with African leaders in Morocco next week for a pivotal summit aimed at mitigating the dissemination of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) throughout the continent.

Ambassador Bonnie D. Jenkins, the Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security, arrives in Rabat today to co-chair the groundbreaking Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) African Political Meeting and Outreach. This event marks the largest gathering of PSI in Africa to date.

During her visit, Jenkins will engage in bilateral discussions with Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and will travel to Marrakech, where experts will showcase tools designed to enhance the counter-proliferation capabilities of partner nations.

Established in 2003, PSI has rallied more than 105 countries to combat the trafficking of WMDs, missile technology, and nuclear components. Despite garnering broad international support, African participation has been limited.

The upcoming summit aims to catalyze additional nations to join this enduring global initiative. It will commence with a keynote address by Jenkins, emphasizing the United States' unwavering endorsement of PSI as a top presidential priority.

Redouane Houssaini, the Moroccan Director, underscored the pressing need to prevent the proliferation of hazardous materials and expertise into unauthorized hands.

This high-profile event, which sheds light on this crucial cause, coincides with Washington's sustained efforts to bolster security collaboration with its Moroccan counterpart in advancing regional stability.