Morocco and France Strengthen Security Ties with Joint Action Plan to Combat Transnational Crime
Marrakech, The Gulf Observer: In a significant step toward reinforcing bilateral security cooperation, Morocco’s Director General of National Security and Territorial Surveillance (DGSN-DGST), Abdellatif Hammouchi, signed a joint action plan with Louis Laugier, Director General of the French National Police, during an official ceremony held Tuesday in Rabat.
The agreement sets a comprehensive framework for enhanced collaboration between the Moroccan and French security services in the fight against transnational organized crime, with a focus on operational coordination, intelligence exchange, training, and technical support.
Laugier, accompanied by French Ambassador to Morocco Christophe Lecourtier and a senior delegation of French security officials, underscored France’s appreciation for Morocco’s consistent role in tracking fugitives, neutralizing terror threats, and supporting major international events, including France’s current preparations for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
According to a statement from the DGSN-DGST, the action plan establishes a “common roadmap” between the two countries, further institutionalizing decades of exceptional cooperation and trust. The framework includes the creation of joint working groups to address shared security threats, especially in cybercrime, terrorism, and cross-border criminal networks.
Symbolic Recognition of Moroccan Leadership
In recognition of Morocco’s key role in global security cooperation, Ambassador Lecourtier awarded Hammouchi the Legion of Honor (Officer rank)—France’s highest national distinction. The award celebrates the effectiveness, professionalism, and international leadership of Morocco’s security institutions in areas such as counterterrorism, cybercrime, and organized crime.
This honor follows a series of international recognitions for Morocco’s security leadership:
- In June 2025, Morocco was elected Vice Chair of Interpol’s Global Cybercrime Expert Group.
- At the 92nd Interpol General Assembly in Glasgow (November 2024), Morocco secured the role of Interpol Vice-President for Africa with strong member-state support.
- Interpol President Ahmed Nasser Al Raisi, during his visit to El Jadida in May, lauded Morocco’s security system as “advanced, efficient, professional, and committed to respecting human rights.”
As a mark of international confidence, Marrakech is set to host the 93rd Interpol General Assembly later this year, with Morocco having received the official Interpol flag from Glasgow.
Preparing for Global Events
France also offered technical support to assist Morocco in developing security protocols for upcoming international sporting events, including the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co-host.
The discussions between Hammouchi and Laugier emphasized the need for rapid-response mechanisms, shared training initiatives, and technological innovations to meet emerging threats across the Mediterranean and beyond.
Environmental Crimes Also in Focus
Just a day prior to the bilateral meeting, Hammouchi reaffirmed Morocco’s internal commitment to combating environmental and forest-related crimes, speaking at a study session in Kenitra. He emphasized the use of forensic science and modern investigative tools, alongside strengthened training programs for specialized personnel.
A Broader Strategic Vision
The renewed security partnership is part of the strategic alliance launched by King Mohammed VI and President Emmanuel Macron in October 2024, aimed at deepening cooperation across diplomatic, economic, and security domains.
With this new action plan, Morocco and France signal a shared determination to confront global criminal threats, reinforce regional stability, and safeguard mutual interests through institutionalized trust and cooperation.
