Morocco has renamed a major highway in honor of former US President Donald Trump, following the US recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara in 2020. The confirmation came from King Mohammed VI and was reported by the BBC. Trump had announced the decision on social media, supported by a letter from King Mohammed VI expressing respect for Trump. The Tiznit-Dakhla highway traverses Western Sahara, a region disputed between Morocco and the Polisario Front, supported by the African Union advocating for Sahrawi independence.
Western Sahara, previously a Spanish colony, remains a conflict zone after five decades, with the UN advocating for conflict resolution through a referendum never held. The US recognition of Morocco’s claim came during the Trump administration as part of a deal where Morocco normalized relations with Israel.
The oldest US peace treaty is the 1787 Treaty of Amity with Morocco, dating back to the American War of Independence when Morocco recognized US independence in 1777. Moroccan Sultan Sidi Muhammad ben Abdallah offered support but did not deploy troops. The treaty provided US ships protection from Barbary pirates and granted trade privileges and religious freedoms.
George Washington’s December 1789 letter expressed gratitude to the Sultan, explaining delayed communication due to political changes in the US and acknowledging Morocco’s recognition and protection. Washington admitted US economic struggles but emphasized honesty and commitment to obligations.
Throughout the late 19th century, US-Moroccan relations evolved amid European colonial ambitions. The US participated in the 1880 Madrid Conference, gaining privileges in Morocco similar to European powers. The Moroccan Sultan sought US support against European encroachment, fostering American commercial interests and modernization efforts without territorial ambitions.
The US recognized Moroccan independence on March 7, 1956, with diplomatic relations upgraded, and King Mohammed V visiting the US in 1957, solidifying the renewed alliance.
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