Donald Trump and Morocco: A Historic Relationship Rooted in Diplomacy and Mutual Interests
Donald Trump’s presidency marked a period of shifting U.S. foreign policy priorities, often driven by his “America First” approach. Despite initial uncertainties about how his administration would engage with the Arab-Muslim world, Morocco remained a key U.S. ally, benefiting from deep historical ties dating back to the 18th century. Trump’s personal encounters with Morocco, particularly his meeting with the late King Hassan II in 1992, played a role in shaping his perception of the kingdom. His administration later reaffirmed Morocco’s strategic importance, culminating in historic diplomatic decisions that reinforced the bond between the two nations.
Morocco: America’s First Ally
The relationship between Morocco and the United States is one of the oldest diplomatic ties in U.S. history. Morocco was the first country to recognize American independence in 1777, and in 1786, the two nations signed the Moroccan-American Treaty of Friendship, which remains the longest unbroken treaty in U.S. history. This treaty established a strong foundation for diplomatic and economic relations, setting the precedent for a long-standing alliance.
Over the centuries, Morocco has maintained its strategic importance in U.S. foreign policy, particularly in security, trade, and diplomatic affairs. Successive American administrations have valued Morocco’s stability and its role as a regional leader in North Africa and the Middle East.
Donald Trump and His View on Morocco
During his presidency (2017-2021), Donald Trump viewed Morocco as a historic and ancestral country, emphasizing the kingdom’s long-standing ties with the United States. His administration strengthened relations with Morocco through key diplomatic gestures, most notably recognizing Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara in 2020. This move was part of a broader geopolitical strategy that also included Morocco’s agreement to normalize relations with Israel under the Abraham Accords.
Although Trump’s early campaign rhetoric raised concerns among Moroccan citizens, his administration later clarified its stance. His press secretary emphasized that Trump held Morocco in high regard, particularly in contrast to adversarial forces in North Africa. Trump saw Morocco as a stable and reliable partner in an often turbulent region, positioning the kingdom as a vital player in counterterrorism efforts and economic cooperation.
Trump’s Meeting with Hassan II: A Symbol of Personal Ties
One of the lesser-known aspects of Trump’s connection with Morocco is his meeting with King Hassan II in 1992. During a visit to the United States, Hassan II stayed at a residence owned by Donald Trump, which reportedly facilitated a personal interaction between the two. This encounter was significant, as it introduced Trump to Morocco’s monarchy and its diplomatic traditions.
While Trump was primarily a businessman at the time, this meeting likely influenced his later perspective on Morocco. He developed an appreciation for Morocco’s centuries-old monarchy, cultural richness, and strategic importance. Though he did not invest in Morocco, he maintained an interest in its geopolitical role.
U.S.-Morocco Diplomatic Protocols and Relations
Diplomatic relations between Morocco and the U.S. follow a well-established protocol based on mutual respect and strategic partnership. These relations have evolved through security cooperation, economic agreements, and cultural exchanges.
1. Security and Counterterrorism Cooperation
Morocco has been a steadfast partner in the U.S. fight against terrorism. The kingdom actively participates in counterterrorism initiatives, intelligence-sharing, and security programs to combat extremism in the region. Trump’s administration strengthened military cooperation with Morocco, ensuring continued U.S. support for Moroccan security forces.
2. Economic and Trade Partnerships
The U.S.-Morocco Free Trade Agreement (FTA), signed in 2004, remains a cornerstone of economic relations between the two countries. Trump, a businessman at heart, viewed trade agreements as vital to strengthening bilateral relations. Under his administration, the economic partnership expanded, with Morocco emerging as a key trade and investment hub for American companies in Africa.
3. Recognition of Western Sahara
One of the most consequential diplomatic moves of Trump’s presidency was his recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara in December 2020. This decision reinforced Morocco’s position on the issue and strengthened bilateral ties. In exchange, Morocco agreed to normalize relations with Israel, aligning with Trump’s broader Middle East strategy.
4. Diplomatic Engagement and Cultural Exchanges
Morocco and the U.S. have maintained high-level diplomatic exchanges, reinforcing their historical friendship. The Moroccan monarchy follows an established protocol of state visits, where U.S. presidents are traditionally received with grand ceremonies. Additionally, Morocco has played a role in fostering interfaith and intercultural dialogue, a value that aligns with U.S. diplomatic objectives in the region.
A Lasting Alliance
Despite initial uncertainties surrounding Trump’s foreign policy toward Morocco, his administration ultimately reinforced and elevated U.S.-Morocco relations. His recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara was a historic move, further solidifying Morocco’s position as a key ally in North Africa.
Trump’s personal connection to Morocco, dating back to his meeting with King Hassan II, reflects the enduring nature of U.S.-Moroccan ties. Regardless of political shifts in Washington, the strategic alliance between the two countries remains rooted in centuries of diplomacy, mutual interests, and shared values.
As Morocco continues to position itself as a regional power, its partnership with the United States will remain a pillar of stability and cooperation in North Africa and beyond.
Here are several ideas related to U.S.-Morocco relations that can be explored in articles, research, or discussions:
1. The Historical Bond: Morocco, The First Nation to Recognize the United States
- A deep dive into Morocco’s recognition of U.S. independence in 1777.
- The signing and significance of the 1786 Moroccan-American Treaty of Friendship.
- How Morocco played a role in early U.S. diplomacy and maritime security.
2. U.S. Military and Security Cooperation with Morocco
- Morocco as a strategic ally in counterterrorism efforts.
- The role of Morocco in U.S. military exercises (e.g., African Lion, the largest military drill in Africa).
- U.S. arms sales and military aid to Morocco.
- Morocco’s role in stabilizing North Africa and the Sahel.
3. The U.S.-Morocco Free Trade Agreement (FTA)
- The 2004 U.S.-Morocco Free Trade Agreement and its economic impact.
- Morocco as a trade and investment gateway to Africa for U.S. companies.
- Key sectors benefiting from U.S.-Morocco trade: agriculture, textiles, automotive, renewable energy.
4. U.S. Recognition of Moroccan Sovereignty Over Western Sahara
- The historical and geopolitical background of the Western Sahara issue.
- Why Trump recognized Morocco’s sovereignty in 2020.
- The implications of U.S. support for Morocco’s autonomy plan.
- Potential future policy changes under different U.S. administrations.
5. Morocco’s Role in Middle East Diplomacy and the Abraham Accords
- Morocco’s historic relations with Israel and Jewish heritage.
- How Morocco’s normalization of ties with Israel under the Abraham Accords strengthened U.S. ties.
- U.S. efforts to involve Morocco in regional peacebuilding.
6. Cultural and Educational Ties Between the U.S. and Morocco
- Moroccan students in the U.S.: Fulbright scholarships, exchange programs, and academic partnerships.
- American Peace Corps in Morocco and cultural exchange programs.
- The influence of Moroccan culture in the U.S., including food, music, and traditions.
7. Morocco’s Role in Renewable Energy and U.S. Investments
- Morocco’s leadership in solar and wind energy (e.g., Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex, one of the largest in the world).
- U.S. investments in Morocco’s green energy sector.
- Morocco as a model for sustainable energy in Africa.
8. U.S. and Morocco: Cooperation on Migration and Development
- How Morocco serves as a buffer state for controlling migration flows to Europe.
- U.S. support for Morocco in development projects and humanitarian efforts.
- The impact of Moroccan diaspora in the U.S.
9. The Influence of Moroccan Diplomacy in Africa and U.S. Strategy
- Morocco’s growing influence in Africa through trade, development, and diplomacy.
- The U.S. using Morocco as a regional partner for African engagement.
- The role of Morocco in African Union (AU) and economic alliances.
10. The Future of U.S.-Morocco Relations Under Changing U.S. Administrations
- How different U.S. presidents (Obama, Trump, Biden) approached Morocco.
- What the future holds for U.S.-Morocco relations in security, trade, and diplomacy.
- Potential areas of expansion in technology, space cooperation, and AI.
