In light of developing threats in the Middle East and North Africa, the Israeli and Moroccan ministers reiterated the importance of enhanced bilateral cooperation.
By United with Israel Staff
Minister of Defense Benny Gantz and H.E. Abdellatif Loudiyi, Moroccan Minister Delegate to the Head of Government in Charge of National Defense, signed a groundbreaking defense MOU on Wednesday in Rabat.
The agreement provides a solid framework that formalizes defense relations between the countries and establishes a foundation that will support any future cooperation. It will enable the defense establishments of both countries to enjoy increased cooperation in the fields of intelligence, industrial collaboration, military training and more.
The agreement is a significant step in the deepening relations of Israel and the Kingdom of Morocco, which already benefit from increased economic cooperation, bilateral tourism, and warm people-to-people relations.
Following the signing ceremony, the ministers held a fruitful discussion during which Gantz expressed his gratitude to His Majesty, King Mohammed VI and to his host, Minister Loudiyi, for supporting the expansion of ties between the two countries.
In light of developing threats in the Middle East and North Africa, the ministers reiterated the importance of enhanced bilateral cooperation. Gantz also emphasized the important role of the Kingdom of Morocco in maintaining regional peace and stability and raised the need to further expand normalization and peace accords with new partners.
Thus far, since the signing of the Abraham Accords, Israel has normalized relations with the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco.
Earlier Wednesday morning, Gantz paid his respects at the Mausoleum of King Mohammed V. He laid a ceremonial wreath and wrote a message to the nation of Morocco in the book of visitors. The message pays tribute to Morocco’s rich history, culture and legacy, and acknowledges the deepening relations between Israel and the kingdom, according to an Israeli government spokesperson.
“We have just signed a defense cooperation MOU with Morocco. It is a very significant development, which will enable us to work on joint projects and promote industrial cooperation. Relations between Israel and Morocco should be expanded and enhanced,” Gantz stated.
According to the World Federation of Moroccan Jewy, nearly one million Israeli Jews are Moroccan or of Moroccan descent, making them one of the largest communities in the Jewish State. They appear to be very happy about the ties forged between the two countries.
