The Chair of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation Military Committee, Admiral Rob Bauer, embarked on a significant visit from 28 to 30 April, to Morocco, symbolising the enduring partnership between NATO and the North African nation.

During his visit, Admiral Bauer, marking his third engagement with a Mediterranean Dialogue Partner in the last month, participated in high-level discussions with prominent Moroccan officials.

Among those present were the Minister-Delegate for the Administration of National Defence, Abdellatif Loudiyi, and Major General Mohammed Berrid, Inspector General of the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces.

The primary focus of the visit was to underscore the vital role of military cooperation in addressing contemporary security challenges.

Admiral Bauer emphasised the need for a comprehensive approach to security, encompassing not only military capabilities but also economic and social development initiatives.

Highlighting Morocco’s significant contributions to international security, Admiral Bauer commended the country’s efforts in various areas, including countering terrorism, maritime security, and illegal immigration.

“NATO praises Morocco’s commitment to international security and the major efforts you have undertaken in reforming your social, political and economic sectors in the last decades. Time and time again, you have brought your expertise and experience to the table, for instance by elevating discussions on countering terrorism, maritime security and illegal immigration. We also highly value your regular participation in NATO Exercises,” Admiral Bauer said.

During his address at the Royal College of Higher Military Studies in Kenitra, Admiral Bauer reaffirmed NATO’s commitment to strengthening partnerships in the southern neighbourhood, particularly in areas such as maritime security, counter-terrorism, and cyber defence.

Emphasizing the importance of deterrence in preventing conflict, Admiral Bauer underscored the role of military cooperation in promoting stability and peace.

He said “Military cooperation creates strong deterrence for all parties included. That is why NATO wants to deepen its partnerships in its southern neighbourhood. In this part of the world, NATO is keen on cooperating more, for instance in the areas of maritime security, counter-terrorism, border security, cyber defence, and counter-improvised explosive devices.”

He also stated that the primary motivation for military service was not to engage in warfare but rather to prevent it through the establishment of strong deterrence measures.

He said, “The reason all of us here in this room, and thousands of our colleagues, choose to wear a uniform and serve in the military… is not because we believe war is the answer. It is because we believe that strong deterrence is the best way to prevent war.”

The visit underscored the longstanding partnership between Morocco and NATO, dating back to 1995 when Morocco joined the Mediterranean Dialogue as a partner country.

Over the past three decades, both parties have collaborated closely to address evolving security challenges, with a shared commitment to peace and stability in the region.

Admiral Bauer’s visit to Morocco reflects NATO’s ongoing efforts to deepen cooperation with partners in the Mediterranean region and underscores the organisation’s commitment to promoting security and stability on a global scale.

After delivering his address, Admiral Bauer engaged in a fruitful exchange with students, responding to inquiries regarding NATO’s role, the Alliance’s recent report on the South, and avenues to bolster partnerships in the increasingly perilous world.