Morocco hosts maritime security summit with us in 2026

Rabat is set to host the African Maritime Forces Summit (AMFS) 2026 from July 20 to 24, a high-level event convened under the aegis of the Royal Moroccan Navy. The summit is co-organized with the U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa (NAVAF) and U.S. Marine Forces Europe and Africa (MARFORAF), placing maritime security innovation at the forefront of discussions.

The summit’s agenda revolves around three core pillars: national policy innovation, cross-border collaboration, and technological advancements in maritime security. Organizers emphasize that the primary goal is to address shared maritime challenges—such as piracy, illegal fishing, smuggling, and transnational crime—through collective capacity-building and enhanced cooperation.

Tackling shared maritime threats

Rear Admiral Mohamed Tahin, Inspector of the Royal Moroccan Navy, highlighted Morocco’s unwavering commitment to fostering African maritime stability. “This summit underscores our dedication to strengthening regional security, deepening African cooperation, and advancing unified efforts for safer, more secure oceans,” he stated during a press briefing.

He outlined key focus areas, including the fight against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, maritime terrorism, human trafficking, and environmental protection. “Maritime security is not just a national priority—it is a shared responsibility that demands sustained dialogue, mutual trust, and coordinated action among all stakeholders,” he added.

Admiral George Wikoff, Commander of NAVAF, echoed these sentiments, stressing the critical role of maritime security in safeguarding legal trade, food security, and regional stability. “The AMFS brings together African maritime leaders, Morocco, the United States, and global partners to confront threats no single nation can tackle alone—piracy, illicit trafficking, terrorism, and organized crime,” he explained. “These challenges transcend borders, disrupt economies, and demand collaborative solutions.”

Strengthening Morocco-U.S. maritime partnership

The summit also highlights the deepening military ties between Morocco and the U.S., particularly in maritime security. Discussions are expected to explore avenues for joint production, job creation, and the development of Morocco’s defense industrial base—a priority since the announcement of the Atlantic Initiative at the recent African Lion exercise.

Ben Ziff, Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Rabat, noted that Morocco’s growing defense sector is a key topic in bilateral military cooperation. “We are actively exploring new avenues to meet our mutual security needs,” he said. “Morocco’s robust industrial landscape makes it an ideal partner for sharing capabilities and reinforcing collective security.”

As part of this year’s summit, the Senior Enlisted Leaders Conference (SEL) will also convene, providing a structured platform for African maritime officials to exchange innovative security solutions and best practices.