U.S.-Morocco Relations Strengthened through Delivery of Apache Helicopters

General Michael Langley, Commander of US AFRICOM, praised the strong bilateral ties between the U.S. and Morocco during the delivery of six AH-64 Apache helicopters. He recognized Morocco’s leadership in regional security and highlighted nearly 250 years of partnership, emphasizing mutual investments in military capabilities. Aimee Cutrona of the U.S. embassy reinforced the importance of this collaboration, while Morocco’s prominent role in global peacekeeping was acknowledged.

On Wednesday, General Michael Langley, Commander of the U.S. Africa Command (US AFRICOM), emphasized the strengthened bilateral ties between the United States and Morocco during the ceremony for the delivery of the first batch of six AH-64 Apache helicopters at the Royal Air Force Base in Sale. General Langley remarked that the handover of this military equipment signifies the robust partnership between the two nations and acknowledged Morocco’s leadership in security within North Africa and the Sahel regions.

General Langley noted that Morocco is viewed as a benchmark in defense and stability, stating, “African armies are watching you and taking examples from you.” He expressed his optimism that the collaboration will continue to prosper, enhancing stability and security across the continent. He acknowledged the international consensus recognizing Morocco as an exporter of security and vital contributor to regional peace.

In reflecting on the ceremony’s significance, Langley stated, “This ceremony goes beyond the mere acquisition of a weapon system; it celebrates a historic partnership that has lasted nearly 250 years.” He acknowledged Morocco’s longstanding support for the United States since its inception, reinforcing the importance of their military relationship.

Historically, the U.S. has been the largest arms supplier to Morocco, comprising approximately 69% of its military imports, followed by France and Israel. Langley stated, “By purchasing these Apache helicopters, Morocco has made a significant step in investing in their security and in regional security.” He stressed that this step enhances Morocco’s warfighting capabilities.

Aimee Cutrona, the Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. embassy in Rabat, echoed Langley’s sentiments about the partnership’s depth, remarking, “The United States and Morocco have a long history of partnership reaching back nearly 250 years when Morocco was the first to recognize U.S. independence.” She highlighted the steady progression of U.S.-Morocco security cooperation as beneficial to both parties in broader regional and global interests.

Recent statistics from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) identified Morocco as the largest arms importer globally last year. U.S. data confirms Morocco as the top purchaser of American military equipment in Africa, with active government-to-government sales currently valued at $8.545 billion.

Since 2013, Morocco has acquired military equipment worth $478 million, including Abrams tanks and C-130H aircraft. In the fiscal year 2022-2023, the U.S. approved over $167 million in defense exports to Morocco, which included military electronics and fire control systems.

Moreover, Morocco has been recognized for its contributions to global peacekeeping, being among the top 10 contributors to UN peacekeeping operations. General Langley reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to enhancing relations with Rabat and expressed that each visit provides opportunities for dialogue aimed at bolstering security across Africa.

The recent first planning meeting for the 21st African Lion exercise highlights the ongoing military collaboration designed to train international forces to address security challenges, including terrorism. This event reflects Morocco’s central role in regional military training initiatives.

In summary, the recent delivery of AH-64 Apache helicopters to Morocco underscores the enduring and robust military partnership between the United States and Morocco. General Michael Langley’s comments highlight Morocco’s significant contributions to regional security and its historical ties with the U.S. The cooperation between the two nations continues to strengthen through mutual investments in military capabilities, fostering a closer alignment on security strategies in North Africa and beyond.

Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com