In recent years, security and intelligence have emerged as fundamental pillars of Moroccan diplomacy, akin to the significance of phosphates and religion in the kingdom's national identity. These elements serve as pivotal levers that enhance Morocco's influence and bolster its achievements on the international stage. The strategic importance of security diplomacy has become more pronounced, particularly under the leadership of Abdellatif Hammouchi, who has increased international engagements since the beginning of the year. His visits often target countries where security cooperation with Morocco is either discreet or in the process of being fortified, underscoring Morocco's evolving role as a central figure in the global battle against terrorism, extremism, and organized crime.
From February 8 to 12, 2026, Hammouchi led a Moroccan security delegation to Saudi Arabia, following an invitation from the head of Saudi State Security to attend the third edition of the World Defense Show in Riyadh. This visit provided an opportunity for the Moroccan delegation to explore cutting-edge technological advancements in security and defense, while also engaging in discussions about new avenues for bilateral cooperation in intelligence, technical support, and security innovation. The participation in such a significant international event highlighted Morocco's keen interest in integrating advanced technologies into its security framework.
The momentum of Morocco's security diplomacy continued with a working visit to Sweden on April 20 and 21, where Hammouchi met with the Swedish Minister of Justice and senior officials from the police and internal security sectors. The meetings culminated in the signing of a memorandum of understanding aimed at enhancing security cooperation, particularly concerning information sharing, the exchange of expertise, and coordinated efforts in combating terrorism, organized crime, illegal immigration, and cybercrime. Notably, Swedish authorities also proposed Morocco's membership in the European Research and Tracking Network, further acknowledging the effectiveness and credibility of Moroccan security services.
Following the Sweden visit, Hammouchi traveled to Austria from May 5 to 7 to participate in the 23rd regional meeting of intelligence and security services, held in Vienna under the auspices of the United Nations. During this gathering, the Moroccan delegation showcased the kingdom's extensive experience in tackling terrorism and violent extremism. Bilateral discussions with various Austrian officials, including Sylvia Mayer, Director of State Security and Intelligence, were held, where Austrian authorities commended the crucial role Moroccan security services have played in dismantling several terrorist cells across Europe and expressed their readiness to deepen collaboration with Rabat, leveraging Moroccan expertise in security matters.
Immediately after his visit to Austria, Hammouchi also traveled to Turkey on May 7 and 8 at the invitation of the Director General of the Turkish National Police. This trip coincided with the fifth edition of the SAHA 2026 exhibition in Istanbul, which focuses on defense, aerospace, and armament industries. In Turkey, Hammouchi met with the head of the Turkish National Intelligence Organization and various officials from the defense sector. Discussions centered on solidifying bilateral security cooperation and reviewing the latest technological innovations related to security systems and equipment.
These successive visits to Saudi Arabia, Sweden, Austria, and Turkey, combined with Morocco's ongoing security initiatives with partners such as the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Bahrain, Iraq, Libya, Oman, Tunisia, Sudan, and Pakistan, illustrate the expanding scope of Moroccan security diplomacy. Morocco is increasingly establishing itself as a reliable and credible partner within both regional and international security frameworks, positioning itself as a key player in the global fight against terrorism and transnational crime.
As reported by en.yabiladi.com.
