Pakistan and Morocco have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on defence cooperation, signaling a significant step in strengthening bilateral defence and security relations. The agreement underscores both countries’ commitment to deepening institutional collaboration in defence-related areas.
The MoU was finalized during an official visit by Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif to Morocco, aimed at expanding defence and security ties and exploring new avenues for cooperation.
During the visit, Minister Asif held talks with Abdellatif Loudiyi, Morocco’s Minister Delegate to the Head of Government in charge of the National Defence Administration. The discussions focused on enhancing defence relations and reviewing matters of mutual interest.
Delegation-level meetings also took place, during which officials exchanged views on defence planning, training, and security coordination. The agreement is expected to pave the way for joint exercises, capacity building, and knowledge sharing between the two countries’ armed forces.
The visit and MoU come amid broader developments in Pakistan’s defence diplomacy. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are reportedly negotiating to convert about $2 billion in loans into a potential deal for JF-17 fighter jets, following a mutual defence pact signed in September 2025.
Discussions center on the JF-17 Thunder jets, which are jointly developed by Pakistan and China and produced domestically. Analysts indicate that the overall deal could reach $4 billion, including additional equipment and support beyond the loan conversion.
Pakistan’s Air Chief, Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, recently visited Saudi Arabia to hold bilateral discussions on military cooperation, highlighting Pakistan’s growing defence ties with multiple countries.
These developments reflect Pakistan’s efforts to expand its defence partnerships, promote domestic military production, and strengthen regional security collaborations.
The Pakistan-Morocco MoU, along with ongoing negotiations with other countries, underscores Islamabad’s strategic approach to enhancing defence capabilities while fostering international military cooperation.
