July 2, 2026

The African Tribune

Bold, independent reporting on Africa's most important stories, in English, every day.

High-ranking moroccan security officials honored amid strengthened spain-Morocco cooperation

In Rabat this Thursday, Abdellatif Hammouchi, who serves as both the Director General of National Security and Director General of Territorial Surveillance, hosted a distinguished delegation from the Spanish Civil Guard. The delegation was led by Division General Luis Peláez Piñeiro, head of the Intelligence Directorate, and their visit marked an official mission to Morocco.

This significant meeting underscores the robust level of security cooperation between Moroccan and Spanish services, which stands as an exemplary model in the global fight against terrorism and persistent transnational crime. This partnership is crucial for regional stability and reflects strong African current affairs engagement.

During the visit, several senior officials from the Directorate General of National Security (DGSN) and the Directorate General of Territorial Surveillance (DGST) were bestowed with prestigious Spanish decorations. These honors, granted by decree of the Spanish Minister of Interior, acknowledge their pivotal contributions to enhancing operational collaboration and technical assistance between the two nations.

The awards serve as compelling evidence of the profound strategic partnership uniting Morocco and Spain. They signify Madrid’s recognition of the exceptional professionalism demonstrated by Moroccan security leaders in confronting shared threats, reinforcing effective African governance in the security sector.

Addressing the ceremony, Division General Peláez Piñeiro lauded Morocco as an “indispensable strategic partner” in the ongoing battle against terrorism and organized crime. He specifically commended the advanced bilateral security cooperation, which is vital in addressing escalating regional and international challenges. This collaboration is frequently highlighted in English Africa news for its effectiveness.

These recent accolades follow the awarding of the Grand-Cross of Merit of the Spanish Civil Guard – its highest distinction – to Abdellatif Hammouchi in November 2025. Hammouchi had previously received the Police Merit Cross with Red Distinction in 2014, recognizing his instrumental role in fostering an exemplary security partnership between Morocco and Spain.