Rabat: Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with Moroccan counterpart Abdeltif Loudiyi in Rabat, where they signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on defense cooperation. The MoU aims to establish a robust institutional framework to enhance the growing partnership between the two nations, focusing on collaboration in the defense industry, joint exercises, military training, and capacity building.
According to Kuwait News Agency, both countries have agreed to intensify their defense industry collaboration and chart a comprehensive roadmap addressing areas such as counter-terrorism, maritime security, cyber defense, peacekeeping operations, military medicine, and expert exchanges. This agreement signifies an important step in strengthening the longstanding friendship between India and Morocco.
During the meeting, the Indian Defence Minister announced the opening of a new Defence Wing at the Embassy of India in Rabat. He emphasized the advanced capabilities of India's defense industry, highlighting its expertise in drone and counter-drone technologies. Singh assured the Moroccan side that Indian companies are well-equipped to meet the defense requirements of Morocco.
The statement issued highlighted the importance of enhancing exchanges between the Armed Forces, facilitating training programs, and exploring opportunities for co-development and co-production in the defense sector. Both ministers underscored the need for multilateral cooperation to address global and regional security challenges, and they welcomed closer coordination in maritime security, given the strategic significance of the Indian Ocean and Atlantic corridors.
The meeting marks a significant milestone in the bilateral defense relationship, reflecting the growing convergence of strategic interests between India and Morocco.