On Wednesday, April 29, Morocco and the United States commemorated the depth of their bilateral relationship through an official visit characterized by symbolic statements and concrete commitments. During a press conference held in Rabat following their meeting, Christopher Landau, the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State, and Nasser Bourita, the Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Living Abroad, highlighted the multifaceted nature of a partnership that spans from resolving the Sahara conflict to space diplomacy, alongside unprecedented economic opportunities.
Artemis: The Sky is No Longer the Limit
"It is a great pleasure for me to see the magnificent and historic flag of Morocco joining all the other flags of the countries that have signed the Artemis Accords," Christopher Landau stated, emphasizing Morocco's commitment to this international initiative designed to guide space exploration. "Morocco is the sixty-fourth signatory, and I currently carry your flag close to my heart, alongside my own. It is wonderful to see them together," he added.
For the American official, this space collaboration embodies a "common human endeavor" that serves "all of humanity," a project where Morocco represents "an ideal partner." Landau expressed gratitude towards King Mohammed VI and the Moroccan government for their commitment, stating, "We could not dream of a better partner."
A Historical and Forward-Looking Diplomatic Relationship
This visit is not only forward-looking but also steeped in historical significance, as Nasser Bourita reminded the audience. "This year, we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral relations between our two countries, a historic, strong, and deeply rooted relationship between two nations over the centuries," he summarized. The diplomatic ties between Rabat and Washington trace back to 1777, when Morocco became the first country in the world to recognize the independence of the United States.
"We are celebrating almost two hundred and fifty years of diplomatic relations," Landau reiterated, emphasizing that the two nations have been "valuable partners throughout this time." This longevity is now manifested by a unique diplomatic presence. "The Kingdom of Morocco will host both the most recent U.S. diplomatic facility in Casablanca and the oldest in Tangier," he noted, referencing the inauguration of the new U.S. consulate in the economic capital on Thursday, April 30. "I believe this testifies to the history of our relationship, but also to the current and ongoing vitality of our ties," he added.
On the economic front, both parties displayed a shared ambition to enhance their cooperation. Landau highlighted the "win-win solutions" available to both countries, particularly in a context where Morocco is "continuing to develop its economy to become one of the most dynamic in this part of the world." He noted, "The United States has capital and expertise that can help Morocco realize its full potential," praising the "stability" and "certainty" offered to American investors. Bourita emphasized the "new records" reached annually in trade and investment, recalling that exchanges have been "multiplied by seven" since the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries came into effect.
"Morocco is the only African country with a free trade agreement with the United States," he insisted, announcing the upcoming ninth session of the joint committee of this agreement. Furthermore, Morocco has officially joined the American initiative "Trade Over Aid," launched the day before in New York, a step in line with "the vision repeatedly expressed by His Majesty King Mohammed VI regarding development in Africa."
Regarding the Moroccan Sahara, the issue was central in discussions, with both parties reaffirming their commitment to a peaceful and swift resolution of the conflict based on Morocco's sovereignty over its southern territory and the autonomy plan. "As you know, we have recognized Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara," Landau reminded, describing the current situation as "unacceptable" and enduring "since 1975," a period "longer than a human life." He emphasized the need for a peaceful yet swift resolution because this situation cannot wait another fifty years.
Bourita praised "the U.S. position on the Moroccan Sahara issue," referring to the historic call between King Mohammed VI and President Donald Trump on December 10, 2020, as a "major turning point." He stated, "Today, the United States sponsors a process that we hope will lead to a definitive solution within the unique framework of the autonomy initiative under Moroccan sovereignty," underscoring the convergence of visions between the two countries.
Beyond political and economic issues, military cooperation was also highlighted. Bourita mentioned the launch of the 22nd edition of the "African Lion" maneuvers, "the largest of its kind in Africa," as well as recent meetings of the joint defense advisory committee in Washington. "In all areas, Morocco and the United States are working as partners and allies," he summarized, emphasizing a "partnership and alliance logic" based on "shared values, interests, and visions."
The visit by the U.S. official will continue in Casablanca and then Marrakech, with Christopher Landau also set to travel to Algeria. "In Algeria, the undersecretary will meet with Algerian officials to discuss deepening bilateral relations," stated a Department of State release, mentioning "joint efforts to address regional security challenges" and "high-impact trade deals."
For Morocco and the United States, however, this step primarily marks the consolidation of a strategic alliance where every sector, from the Moroccan Sahara to space, from the economy to defense, contributes to shaping a "strong and anchored partnership," to quote Nasser Bourita.
As reported by fr.le360.ma.
