Gemalto delivers end-to-end ePassport solution to Morocco

Gemalto have announced the delivery of a complete solution for the Moroccan Mint: Dar As-Sikkah (Bank Al Maghrib), for the Kingdom of Morocco’s biometric passport program.

The Gemalto solution includes the highly secure operating system Sealys eTravel, as well as the electronic covers with an integrated contactless microprocessor, containing the holder’s digital fingerprint and photo. The company also provides its turnkey personalization solution Coesys Issuance, in addition to installation, training and maintenance services. Deployment began in December 2009 and the supply contract covers a three-year period.

For citizen data acquisition, Gemalto provides the Ministry of Interior with its Coesys Enrolment solution in cooperation with its Moroccan partner Netopia, a leading integration services company for the public sector. In addition, Gemalto has implemented a skill transfer process for Netopia in order to accompany the project’s start-up.

With this program, the Kingdom of Morocco is now the first country outside of the European Union (EU) to issue new-generation biometric passports including Extended Access Control (EAC) in accordance with European specifications.

“A long-term partnership between Dar As-Sikkah, Gemalto and Netopia has been created through this program,” commented Lahcen Hadouni, Head of Dar As-Sikkah. “The project’s success reflects the close fit between the various players and the sustained commitment shown by a multidisciplinary team.”

“Netopia is delighted to have contributed, alongside Gemalto, to this project’s outstanding success,” said Zaki Narjisse, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Netopia. “This partnership will open up greater possibilities for cooperation both in Morocco and other countries.”

“This is the first time electronic passports have been issued in the Maghreb Region, and this initiative highlights Morocco’s commitment to establishing itself at the forefront of technological innovation,” added Jacques Seneca, Executive Vice-President, Gemalto. “By supplying an end-to-end solution, cooperating with its partner Netopia, Gemalto takes full responsibility for its delivery and implementation, enabling our customers to focus on their core business.”

Gemalto’s references for electronic travel documents include the following countries: Cote d’Ivoire, Denmark, Estonia, France, Hong Kong, India (diplomatic), Italy, Latvia, Malta, Norway, Portugal, Qatar, Singapore, Sweden, Turkey and the United States.