General Michael Langley, Commander of US AFRICOM, highlighted the strong US-Morocco partnership during the delivery of six AH-64 Apache helicopters. This historic military cooperation, which spans nearly 250 years, emphasizes Morocco’s leadership in regional security. The US remains the largest arms exporter to Morocco, facilitating substantial military investments and reinforcing bilateral ties and stability throughout Africa.
On Wednesday, General Michael Langley, Commander of the US Africa Command (US AFRICOM), acknowledged the robust bilateral relationship between the United States and Morocco during the ceremony for the delivery of six AH-64 Apache helicopters. He emphasized that this transfer of military equipment is indicative of the strong partnership between the two nations, which dates back nearly 250 years.
General Langley lauded Morocco’s substantial leadership role in regional security throughout North Africa and the Sahel, asserting, “African armies are watching you and taking examples from you,” and describing Morocco as a “reference in defense and stability.” He expressed confidence that the partnership will continue to evolve, contributing to overall regional stability and security.
The General elaborated on Morocco’s pivotal role within the international community, underscoring its reputation as a significant exporter of security. He stated, “This ceremony goes beyond the mere acquisition of a weapon system; it celebrates a historic partnership that has lasted nearly 250 years.”
Moreover, during the ceremony, the Charge d’Affaires at the US embassy in Rabat, Aimee Cutrona, reiterated the importance of solidifying and advancing U.S.-Morocco relations, noting, “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.”
Recent data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) identified Morocco as the foremost arms importer globally last year, with the U.S. accounting for 69% of its defense equipment imports. The State Department noted that the United States currently has $8.545 billion in active sales cases with Morocco under the Foreign Military Sales system.
Since 2013, Morocco has procured military equipment worth $478 million from the U.S., including tanks and aircraft. In the 2022-2023 fiscal year, the U.S. approved over $167 million in defense exports to Morocco, highlighting a variety of military technologies involved. Additionally, Morocco is one of the top contributors to UN peacekeeping operations.
General Langley reiterated Washington’s commitment to strengthening ties with Morocco, viewing each visit as an opportunity for dialogue and knowledge exchange. He praised the Moroccan vision for enhancing stability and security across Africa while reflecting on the recent planning meeting for the upcoming African Lion exercise, which will engage international militaries in training designed to address security challenges effectively.
The recent delivery of AH-64 Apache helicopters to Morocco underscores the deep-rooted partnership between the United States and Morocco, which has flourished for nearly 250 years. This event is not merely about military acquisition; it reflects Morocco’s vital role in regional security and stability. Both nations aim to enhance their collaboration, particularly in defense and peacekeeping efforts, contributing positively to broader African security initiatives.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
