Morocco, Sweden sign security cooperation deal amid growing threats

Abdellatif Hammouchi, Morocco’s top security official, visited Sweden this week for talks aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation on counterterrorism and organized crime, officials said.

Hammouchi, who heads both General Directorate of National Security and General Directorate for Territorial Surveillance, led a high-level delegation during the April 20–21 visit.

According to an official statement, the trip came at the request of Swedish authorities seeking to deepen coordination with Morocco across operational security fields, including intelligence-sharing and technical cooperation.

During the visit, Hammouchi held meetings with senior Swedish officials, including Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer, National Police Commissioner Lena Nitz, and Deputy Commissioner Stefan Hector.

The discussions focused on shared security concerns and mechanisms to address emerging threats at both regional and international levels.

The two sides signed a memorandum of understanding between Moroccan security services and the Swedish Police Authority, aimed at strengthening cooperation in training, information exchange and operational practices.

The agreement sets out procedures for rapid information-sharing on issues including terrorism, extremism, drug trafficking, cybercrime, financial crime, human trafficking and irregular migration.

Swedish officials also proposed Morocco’s participation in a European network for tracking wanted individuals, citing the country’s role in international law enforcement efforts against transnational crime.

Hammouchi also met with intelligence officials, including Charlotte von Essen, to discuss evolving threats linked to extremist groups and the growing importance of cyber operations in combating terrorism and organized crime.

The visit included field trips to Swedish police units specializing in tactical response, canine operations and cybercrime investigations.

Officials said the trip underscores the importance of Morocco-Sweden security cooperation as both countries seek to strengthen coordination in addressing global security challenges.