Darmanin lauds Moroccan role in France’s anti-terror strategy

French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin commended the anti-terror collaboration between France and Morocco during his visit to Rabat on Monday, highlighting the crucial role Moroccan intelligence services will play in securing the upcoming Paris Olympic Games this summer.

During his meeting with Moroccan counterpart Abdelouafi Laftit, Darmanin expressed profound gratitude towards Moroccan intelligence for their assistance in mitigating terrorism in France.

"Without the Moroccan intelligence services, France would be more affected by terrorism, and we are very thankful, especially in anticipation of the Olympic Games," Darmanin stated.

The discussions also covered mutual support for major sporting events, including not only the Paris Olympics and Paralympics but also the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations set to be held in Morocco. "Paris and Rabat will help each other during major sporting events that we are going to experience," added Darmanin, signaling a strengthened partnership between the two nations.

A delegation official, who chose to remain anonymous, mentioned that France has sought security assistance from several countries, including Morocco, for the Olympics. "Police officers of various nationalities, including Moroccan, will be mobilized during the Olympics to support the work of French security forces," he revealed.

Furthermore, Darmanin emphasized the importance of Moroccan intelligence concerning threats from the Sahel region, where France faces ongoing tensions with several countries. This cooperation is critical as France remains vigilant about threats penetrating the Sahelo-Saharan strip.

Darmanin's trip comes amid a thaw in relations between France and Morocco, following a historic rift. He is the third French minister to visit the kingdom in three months, part of a broader French effort to "deeply renew and modernize the Franco-Moroccan relationship," according to Darmanin. 

The visit underscores a pivotal moment in Franco-Moroccan relations, with both countries leaning on each other to enhance security measures ahead of significant global sports events, reflecting a mutual commitment to deepening diplomatic and security cooperation.