Special to WorldTribune.com

WASHINGTON — Morocco and the United States have been reviewing joint
naval operations in the Mediterranean Sea.

The administration of President Barack Obama has been drafting plans for
enhanced naval cooperation with Morocco over the next year.

Officials said the cooperation could include joint exercises, coordinated maritime security patrols and training.

“Morocco’s leadership is critical to our mutual interests of greater stability in the region,” U.S. Navy Secretary Ray Mabus said.

On Aug. 12, Mabus concluded a visit to Rabat to determine options for enhanced naval cooperation. Officials said Mabus focused on Morocco’s role in regional efforts to stop Al Qaida from expanding in North Africa.

“We commend Morocco for their participation in international peace-keeping and the key role they play in the training and assistance of our African partners,” Mabus said.

Morocco was Mabus’ first stop in his North African and Sahel tour.

Officials said Washington regarded Morocco as a key partner in maritime and
other security operations in both the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Ocean.

In May 2013, Morocco canceled a major U.S. military exercise in protest
of Washington’s support for a United Nations resolution on the disputed
Western Sahara. Officials said the resolution in the Security Council was
withdrawn and military cooperation resumed.

“As one of our oldest partners, we appreciate the rich military
cooperation between our two countries,” Mabus said. “We share many of the
same concerns, and my hope is that visits such as mine will continue to
advance our future engagements.”

  Mediterranean, Ray Mabus, U.S.-Morocco naval cooperation targets Al Qaida expansion in N. Africa, Western Sahara