The U.S. State Department has described the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Morocco as a “strong partnership,” particularly in advancing peace and security, under the leadership of President Donald Trump and King Mohammed VI.
In a response to Assahifa English regarding recent developments in bilateral ties, a State Department spokesperson reaffirmed that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita had underscored the strength of the relationship during their meeting last April.
The spokesperson noted that Washington and Rabat are currently cooperating “to advance shared priorities in the region, including by building on the Abraham Accords,” and are working to “expand commercial cooperation to benefit both Americans and Moroccans.”
This statement comes at a significant moment, as the U.S. and Morocco are expected to launch consultations aimed at deepening trade relations in light of recent global shifts—particularly following the Trump administration’s imposition of tariffs on several countries, including Morocco, which was subject to the minimum rate (10%) compared to others.
Morocco did not retaliate against the U.S. tariffs. This stance was reflected in remarks by Moroccan Government Spokesman Mustapha Baitas during a press briefing following a cabinet meeting in April, where he stated only that “the United States and Morocco share a strong, multi-dimensional strategic partnership.”
Baitas highlighted that “Morocco is the only country in Africa with a free trade agreement with the United States, which constitutes a solid foundation for this relationship,” emphasizing Morocco’s constant readiness to enhance the agreement in line with the Kingdom’s role as a gateway for trade and investment in Africa and the Arab world.
According to many observers, Baitas’ statement signaled Rabat’s willingness to enter negotiations with Washington to reach a deal that safeguards Moroccan interests, particularly given the country’s strategic location as a hub for commerce and investment in both Africa and the Arab world—a vision that aligns with the U.S.’s interest in expanding its trade footprint on the African continent.
It is also worth noting that the current U.S. administration has reaffirmed its recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara and reiterated its support for Morocco’s autonomy plan as a solution to the conflict, urging other parties to engage in finding a mutually acceptable resolution.
In this context, White House adviser for African and Middle Eastern affairs, Masad Boulos, is expected to visit both Morocco and Algeria soon, as part of the Trump administration’s push to accelerate a resolution to the Sahara dispute.
