Morocco Seen Increasing Defense Spending

WASHINGTON [MENL] -- A leading U.S. consultant has determined that Morocco,
despite the global economic crisis, intends to increase defense spending.
Forecast International asserted that Morocco would increase defense
spending through 2014. The Newtown, Conn.-based consultant said weapons
procurement by the North African kingdom would be fueled by
counter-insurgency and other regional threats.
"Looking forward, Morocco will continue to increase defense spending
over the next five years," Forecast said. "Two major factors will account
for the expected increase: growing security commitments and a need to fund a
number of high-value multiyear procurements."