Morocco Boosts Defense Spending in 2025 Budget, Signaling Growing Regional Role
In a move reflecting its commitment to national security and a more prominent role on the international stage, Morocco has announced a significant increase in its defense budget for 2025. The Moroccan Council of Ministers, chaired by King Mohammed VI, approved a draft budget allocating 133.453 billion dirhams (approximately $13.7 billion USD) to defense, a substantial increase of 9 billion dirhams from the previous year.
This decision underscores Morocco’s dedication to modernizing its armed forces and enhancing its defense capabilities. The increased budget will be used to fund a range of initiatives, including:
Personnel: The budget allocates 5,762 new positions for the National Defense Administration and 1,000 positions for the General Delegation for Prison Administration, out of a total of 28,906 new public sector positions. This suggests a focus on strengthening both military and internal security forces.
Improved Compensation and Benefits: The Council also approved seven military decrees aimed at improving the financial and social well-being of personnel serving in the Royal Armed Forces, auxiliary forces, civil protection, and the Royal Gendarmerie. These decrees include salary increases in line with those granted to other public sector employees.
* Military Modernization: While specific details haven’t been released, the budget increase is likely to support the ongoing modernization of Morocco’s military equipment and infrastructure. In recent years, Morocco has made significant investments in advanced weaponry, including fighter jets, drones, and missile defense systems, primarily from the United States and France.
This move comes amidst a backdrop of evolving geopolitical dynamics in the region. Morocco faces various security challenges, including terrorism threats, regional instability, and ongoing tensions with neighboring Algeria. The country’s growing defense budget reflects its determination to proactively address these challenges and safeguard its national interests.
Beyond national security, the increased defense spending also signals Morocco’s ambition to play a more active role in international affairs. The country has been increasingly engaged in peacekeeping operations and regional security initiatives, particularly in Africa.
Furthermore, Morocco’s commitment to strengthening its international partnerships is evident in the Council’s approval of 19 international agreements. Notably, 13 of these agreements were signed with African nations, highlighting Morocco’s focus on fostering closer ties within the continent. These agreements cover a wide range of areas, including investment protection, judicial cooperation, fisheries, tourism, international transport, and air services.
Morocco’s decision to significantly increase its defense budget in 2025 is a multi-faceted strategy. It reflects the country’s commitment to maintaining a strong national defense, addressing regional security concerns, and expanding its role as a key player on the global stage.
