General Michael Langley of US AFRICOM highlighted the strong ties between the U.S. and Morocco during the ceremony for the delivery of AH-64 Apache helicopters. The event marks a historic military partnership, with Morocco recognized for its leadership in regional security. The U.S. remains the largest arms supplier to Morocco, consolidating their defense cooperation and mutual interests in global peace and stability.
On a recent occasion in Rabat, General Michael Langley, Commander of the U.S. Africa Command (US AFRICOM), emphasized the strong bilateral relationship between the United States and Morocco during the delivery ceremony of the first batch of AH-64 Apache helicopters. This transfer of military equipment underscores the longstanding partnership, with Langley noting Morocco’s crucial leadership in security across North Africa and the Sahel.
Highlighting Morocco’s role as a key player in regional peace and stability, Langley remarked, “African armies are watching you and taking examples from you,” expressing confidence that cooperation between the U.S. and Morocco will continue to flourish. This relationship, he stated, transcends mere military transactions, symbolizing a historic alliance that has endured nearly 250 years.
Aimee Cutrona, the Charge d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Rabat, echoed General Langley’s sentiments, stressing the importance of fostering bilateral ties. She pointed out the deep-rooted partnership dating back to Morocco’s recognition of U.S. independence nearly 250 years ago. Cutrona underscored the continuous growth of U.S.-Morocco security cooperation, which aligns with both nations’ interests globally.
According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Morocco emerged as the largest arms importer last year, with the U.S. being the primary supplier, accounting for 69% of its military imports. Current active government-to-government sales cases total approximately $8.545 billion, according to the U.S. State Department, highlighting Morocco’s significant defense investments.
Since 2013, Morocco has received military equipment valued at $478 million, including various advanced weaponry and vehicles. The recent fiscal year saw the approval of over $167 million for the export of additional defense materials. Morocco’s contributions to international peacekeeping are notable, with the country ranking among the top ten contributors worldwide.
General Langley reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to enhancing relations with Morocco, indicating that every visit serves as a platform for dialogue and mutual understanding. He concluded by praising Morocco’s strategic vision in promoting stability and security within Africa, while also referencing the recent planning for the 21st African Lion 2025, an essential military exercise designed to address security challenges such as terrorism.
The delivery of AH-64 Apache helicopters to Morocco represents a significant milestone in the military cooperation between the United States and Morocco. This partnership, rooted in nearly 250 years of shared history, continues to evolve, reflecting Morocco’s important role in regional security. The substantial U.S. arms exports to Morocco demonstrate a commitment to enhancing defense capabilities, aligning with both nations’ interests in promoting stability across Africa and beyond.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
