French firm endorses aerospace investment in Morocco

The French aerospace manufacturer Safran has endorsed aerospace investment in Morocco, following its investment in an aircraft engine complex in the North African country, as reported by the Moroccan government-friendly North Africa Post via Maghreb Arabe Press on October 16th.

The Safran Group’s CEO and board member, Olivier Andriès, told the French business programme “Good Morning Business” that “[w]e chose to invest in the aircraft engine complex in Nouaceur based on the welcoming conditions, talent, and infrastructure.”

Andriès endorsed the infrastructure under King Mohammed VI, describing the North African nation as “a country where we have gradually developed our activities over the past 25 years.”

He added: “The group employs 5,000 people in Morocco, extraordinary talent, committed, enthusiastic, and performing at the highest operational level. We are very well received there.”

The CEO’s comments come after King Mohammed VI attended the Safran Group’s unveiling of its project in Morocco on October 13th. The Chairman of Safran’s Board, Ross McInnes, explained how “the presence of His Majesty the King at the launch ceremony speaks volumes about Morocco’s commitment to industrial development. It also reflects the exemplary investment climate fostered by a forward-looking and consistent national vision.”

France and Morocco have been increasingly developing their cooperation, as seen by a report on October 7th that the nations would launch a joint military exercise called “Charqi 2025.” The joint drills allegedly include manoeuvres simulating combat in a difficult terrain; both countries’ defence ministers described the operation as a “long-standing partnership” designed to improve preparedness for regional security concerns.

It was reported on June 27th, that the Royal Moroccan Air Force and the French Air and Space Force also began a joint military exercise called “Marathon 25”, and the French military issued a statement on X to clarify that the training aimed to “enhance interoperability and mastery of aerial procedures and tactics.”

Marathon 25 was created with the intention of advancing military cooperation, knowledge sharing, and operational strategies.

However, France is not the only nation with which Morocco is developing ties, as reported on June 20th, the Kingdom was in talks to acquire F-35 fighter jets from the US-based manufacturer Lockheed Martin.

India also announced the opening of its first overseas defence manufacturing plant in the Moroccan city of Casablanca. India’s Ministry of Defence stated that the deal “provides for a robust institutional framework to the growing partnership and paves the way for collaboration in the defence industry, joint exercises, military training and capacity building.”

It was initially reported on April 25th, 2024, that Morocco aimed to become an industry hub to meet global demand for aeroplane manufacturing and servicing.

North Africa Post via Maghreb Arabe Press, Maghrebi.org