Morocco and Turkey: From Ankara, the Outlines of a New Security Alliance Take Shape

ALDAR / Iman Alaoui

From the heart of Ankara, where the International Forum on Internal Security Equipment (IGEF 2025) was held, the participation of Abdellatif Hammouchi, Director General of National Security and Territorial Surveillance, carried far deeper significance than a mere protocol appearance. His presence at the head of a high-level security delegation marked a pivotal moment, reflecting Morocco’s ambition to strengthen its position as a central actor in shaping cross-border security policies.

The meeting between Hammouchi and his Turkish counterpart, Mahmoud Demirtaş, solidified a strategic direction that places security at the forefront of bilateral relations between Rabat and Ankara. Discussions addressed sensitive and complex issues such as counterterrorism, irregular migration, and dismantling organized crime networks, in addition to advancing training and police capacity-building—aligned with Morocco’s upcoming milestones: hosting the INTERPOL General Assembly in Marrakech, the Africa Cup of Nations in 2025, and the FIFA World Cup in 2030.

Yet, the significance of Hammouchi’s visit went beyond the Moroccan–Turkish dimension. It extended into a multilateral scope through bilateral meetings with delegations from Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Malaysia—clear evidence that Morocco views security as a global challenge that can only be addressed through flexible and diversified partnerships. This approach reflects Morocco’s vision of strengthening international cooperation as the most effective weapon against the growing threats that transcend borders and sovereignties.

In the same context, the Moroccan delegation toured the international exhibition held alongside the forum, exploring the latest innovations in security technologies. This step underscored Morocco’s dual strategy: openness to international experiences while modernizing its own security infrastructure to ensure a high level of preparedness for future challenges.

The message from Ankara is clear: Morocco is not content with safeguarding only its national sphere; it aspires to be a key partner in shaping both regional and international security dynamics. Guided by the policies of King Mohammed VI, a distinctly Moroccan model of security is emerging—one built on partnership, efficiency, and strategic reach, extending from Africa to Europe, and from the Atlantic to the depths of the Mediterranean.