14 Oct Morocco and UAE deepen military cooperation amid Algeria diplomatic rift

Morocco and the UAE have reaffirmed plans to expand military cooperation, as diplomatic tensions between Algeria and Abu Dhabi continue to reshape regional relationships.

Morocco and the United Arab Emirates have strengthened their military partnership following the third meeting of the Moroccan-Emirati Joint Military Commission in Rabat.

General Mohammed Berrid, Inspector General of Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces (FAR) and Commander of the Southern Zone, met Lieutenant General Issa Saif bin Ablan Al Mazrouei, Chief of Staff of the UAE Armed Forces, during the UAE delegation’s visit to Morocco.

The meeting focused on areas including capability development, defence industry, training and the exchange of expertise. Both sides reaffirmed their intention to further develop military cooperation between the two countries.

The partnership dates back more than four decades, with the two countries signing their first military cooperation agreement in 1980. A framework agreement signed in 2006 further developed the relationship.

The latest discussions come against a backdrop of worsening relations between the UAE and neighbouring Algeria.

The deterioration in Algeria-UAE relations has taken place alongside wider differences over regional issues, including competing positions on Western Sahara. Algeria supports the Polisario Front, while the UAE has backed Morocco’s position.

Meanwhile, the UAE delegation’s visit to Morocco coincides with the Marrakech Air Show, taking place from 7 to 10 October. The UAE is participating with a national pavilion supported by its Ministry of Defence and Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement, highlighting civil, military and space aviation capabilities.

The Moroccan authorities also recognised Al Mazrouei’s contribution to bilateral military relations, with King Mohammed VI awarding him the Grand Officer rank of the Military Order of Merit.