Moroccan and spanish security leaders honored in Rabat for robust cooperation

On Thursday in Rabat, Abdellatif Hammouchi, who heads both the General Directorate of National Security (DGSN) and the General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance (DGST), extended a warm welcome to a senior delegation from the Spanish Civil Guard. The visiting group was led by Major General Luis Peláez Piñeiro, who serves as the head of Intelligence for the Spanish force, on an official visit to Morocco.

This significant meeting underscored the exceptional level of security collaboration between Moroccan and Spanish agencies. Officials highlighted that this partnership serves as a benchmark for effective counter-terrorism efforts and the ongoing battle against transnational organized crime.

In a notable ceremony, numerous high-ranking officials from both the DGSN and the DGST were bestowed with esteemed Spanish honors. These prestigious decorations, issued by decree from Spain’s Minister of the Interior, acknowledge their pivotal contributions to enhancing operational cooperation and technical assistance between the two nations.

These accolades emphatically demonstrate the profound strategic alliance shared by Morocco and Spain. They signify Madrid’s clear recognition of the professionalism exhibited by Moroccan security leaders in confronting shared regional and global threats.

During the event, Major General Peláez Piñeiro characterized Morocco as an «indispensable strategic partner» in the global fight against terrorism and organized crime. He specifically commended the advanced bilateral security cooperation, which is crucial in addressing increasingly complex regional and international challenges.

These recent commendations build upon previous recognition, including the Grand Cross of Merit of the Spanish Civil Guard – the highest honor – which Abdellatif Hammouchi received in November 2025. Furthermore, in 2014, Hammouchi was awarded the Police Merit Cross with Red Distinction, acknowledging his instrumental role in fostering an exemplary security partnership between Morocco and Spain.