US and Morocco Plan Major Military Exercise ’African Lion 21’ Amid Pandemic

African Lion 21, the largest military training exercise on the continent, will be held in June 2021. According to the two general officers, the exercise "represents an opportunity to demonstrate the strong and ongoing strategic partnership between the United States and Morocco, although the two nations are facing Covid-19."

In a statement, General Rohling expressed his joy at being able to "meet General El Farouk in person for the first time." He praised the "caliber and character of General El Farouk and his understanding of the strategic environment." He stressed that the event is being prepared taking into account the Covid-19 pandemic, reports the MAP.

The two officers also exchanged on regional defense and security issues, as well as force preparation issues and challenges related to Covid-19. "We are facing a number of shared challenges. We will continue to capitalize on our already very strong relationships to meet these challenges," the same source said.