A senior Israeli Defense Ministry delegation led by Director-General Maj. Gen. (res.) Amir Baram arrived in Morocco this week for talks aimed at deepening security cooperation between the two countries. The visit is taking place at the direction of Defense Minister Israel Katz.
"Morocco is not just another security partner, it is much more than that," Baram said. "Over the years we have built a strong relationship based on trust, mutual respect, Jewish heritage and deep historical ties between our peoples. We intend to keep developing relations between our countries to new heights."
In Rabat, the delegation met with Abdellatif Loudiyi, Morocco's Minister Delegate in charge of National Defense Administration, and with Lt. Gen. Mohammed Berrid, Inspector General of the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces. The Israeli team also held talks with senior officials from the royal palace and Morocco's intelligence services. The delegation includes IDF representatives.
According to a joint Moroccan statement, Baram and Loudiyi expressed satisfaction with the progress of bilateral defense cooperation. That cooperation rests on a legal framework covering the protection of classified military information and equipment, cybersecurity, exchanges of expertise and personnel training. Their talks focused on military equipment procurement, defense technology, and establishing a defense industrial base in Morocco.
Berrid received Baram at the Royal Armed Forces General Staff headquarters on the instructions of King Mohammed VI. The two discussed capability development, training and technical cooperation. They reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the action plans adopted by the countries' Joint Military Commission.
Israel's Defense Ministry said security ties with Morocco have grown significantly since the two countries renewed diplomatic relations in 2020 and signed a defense memorandum of understanding in 2021, including throughout the three years of war. The ministry said Israeli defense industries are highly regarded in Morocco. Most deals between the two countries are carried out through government-to-government agreements, and Israeli firms are helping Morocco build an independent defense industry through joint ventures and offset agreements.
During the visit, Baram is expected to inaugurate the permanent premises of Israel's defense attaché office in Rabat. The office is headed by Col. Sharon Itach, Israel's first-ever military attaché to Morocco. Itach, who is of Moroccan descent, was appointed to the post in 2023.
