Washington: Speaking at his confirmation hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, the new U.S. ambassador to Morocco highlighted the pivotal role of the Kingdom of Morocco in maintaining regional stability. He emphasized that Morocco’s strategic location is vital to American national security interests.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, Duke Buchan III, nominated by President Donald Trump in March, praised Morocco as a key security ally of the United States. He noted that Morocco hosts AFRICOM’s largest joint military exercise, African Lion, and serves as a reliable partner in the fight against terrorism, especially in Africa.

Buchan assured the Senate Committee that, if confirmed, he would work to strengthen the long-standing security relationship between the two nations, which dates back to the Treaty of Peace and Friendship of 1786. He emphasized the importance of this partnership in enhancing the safety, strength, and prosperity of both Americans and Moroccans.

The ambassador-designate also recognized Morocco as a model economic partner, highlighting the robust trade relationship between the U.S. and Morocco. He advocated for increased opportunities for American businesses in Morocco, particularly in sectors like technology, transportation, agriculture, and energy.

Buchan recalled the U.S. position, reiterated by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, supporting Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara and endorsing Morocco’s Autonomy Proposal as the sole basis for a sustainable resolution to the regional dispute. He pledged to facilitate progress towards this goal.

President Donald Trump, when announcing Buchan’s appointment, underscored the ambassador’s anticipated role in fostering peace, freedom, and prosperity between the United States and Morocco.