Abdellatif Hammouchi, the Director General of National Security (DGSN) and Territorial Surveillance (DGST), led a high-level security delegation on a working visit to the Kingdom of Sweden on April 20 and 21. The visit focused on consolidating cooperation and coordination between Moroccan and Swedish security services.
Strengthening Strategic Security Ties
During the visit, Mr. Hammouchi held a series of meetings with key Swedish officials, including Minister of Justice Gunnar Strömmer, National Police Commissioner Petra Lundh and Deputy Commissioner General Stefan Hector. These discussions addressed shared security interests and the coordination of mechanisms to tackle emerging regional and international risks.
A central outcome of these talks was the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the DGSN-DGST pole and the Swedish National Police. This agreement establishes a contractual framework to enhance the exchange of police expertise, best practices, and security training.
Combatting Transnational Crime and Terrorism
The new memorandum defines streamlined procedures for exchanging information on critical threats. This includes terrorism, extremism, and organized crime, with a specific focus on the trafficking of drugs and psychotropics.
The agreement likewise covers cybercrime, computer hacking, economic and financial crimes, illegal immigration, human trafficking, and violent crimes. This framework is designed to ensure rapid and clear information flow between the two nations’ security services.
Intelligence Sharing and Tactical Exchange
Mr. Hammouchi also met with Charlotte von Essen, Director General of the Swedish Security Service. Their talks focused on the challenges posed by terrorist groups in Europe, the Middle East, and the Sahel-Saharan region.
The delegation further examined “virtual operations” used to fight organized crime and terrorism. To conclude the visit, the Director General toured several Swedish security departments, including canine units, central intervention units, and cybercrime services.
Implications for Global Stability
Swedish officials highlighted the importance of the Moroccan security model, describing Morocco as an “important and reliable partner.” This cooperation reflects a broader commitment to collective security and the neutralization of threats to regional and international stability.
Moving forward, the partnership could likely expand as the two countries implement the technical assistance and operational cooperation outlined in the memorandum. A possible next step may include the formalization of Morocco’s role within the ENFAST system to further enhance the capture of international fugitives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the primary purpose of Abdellatif Hammouchi’s visit to Sweden?
The visit aimed to consolidate cooperation and coordination between Moroccan and Swedish security services, specifically to strengthen their partnership through operational cooperation, the exchange of expertise, and mutual technical assistance.
What specific crimes are covered under the new memorandum of understanding?
The agreement covers terrorism, extremism, organized crime (specifically drug and psychotropic trafficking), cybercrime, hacking, economic and financial crime, illegal immigration, human trafficking, and violent crimes.
What is ENFAST, and why was it mentioned?
ENFAST is the European Network of Fugitive Search Teams. Sweden proposed that Moroccan security services join this system because of Morocco’s effective role in locating and arresting persons wanted internationally for cross-border crimes.
How do you suppose increased international cooperation on cybercrime will impact global security in the coming years?
