France commends Morocco's support in counterterrorism efforts ahead of 2024 Paris Olympics
French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin has praised Morocco's cooperation in the fight against terrorism, amid security concerns over the 2024 Paris Olympic Games taking place this summer.
During an official visit to Morocco on Monday, Darmanin lauded the kingdom's help in fighting terrorism in France as Paris prepares to host the 2024 Olympics.
The French interior minister's visit to the capital Rabat comes amid efforts to bring the two countries closer after a series of diplomatic spats and the deterioration in France's relations with countries across the Sahel.
"Without the Moroccan intelligence services, France would be more affected by terrorism," Darmanin said in a meeting with Moroccan Interior Minister Abdelouafi Laftit.
"We thank them greatly, particularly in anticipation of the Olympic Games," which start in late July, Darmanin added.
Security cooperation
According to the minister, Paris and Rabat will be helping each other "during the major sporting events that we will be hosting, in particular the Olympic and Paralympic Games this summer and the African Cup of Nations in Morocco in 2025".
France has reportedly requested the support of several dozen countries – including Morocco – in terms of security ahead of the Olympics.
French Agriculture Minister Marc Fesneau is also currently visiting Morocco until 23 April, while his Minister for the Economy Bruno Lemaire is expected back in Morocco later this week.
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