Washington: The Maghreb Arabe Press Agency (MAP) organized its first-ever international Town Hall in Washington, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the historic partnership between Morocco and the United States.
According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, this event, themed “Kingdom of Morocco – United States of America: From Historic Partnership to Strategic Alliance,” underscores the renewed strategic momentum in the relationship between Rabat and Washington. This development comes under the guidance of His Majesty King Mohammed VI and former President Donald Trump and is highlighted by the United States’ recognition in 2020 of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara.
MAP Director General Fouad Arif emphasized that hosting the inaugural international MAP Town Hall in Washington aligns with the agency’s mission to foster dialogue and convergence of ideas. Arif highlighted that MAP aims to serve as a facilitator of dialogue between Morocco and the global community, beyond its role as a media institution.
Arif elaborated on the long-standing diplomatic relations between Morocco and the United States, celebrating their 250th anniversary. He noted Morocco’s distinction as the first nation to recognize U.S. independence in 1777 and highlighted the enduring Treaty of Peace and Friendship signed in 1786.
The continuous deepening of this relationship over the centuries was illustrated by several historical milestones, including the Tangier Legation, the Anfa Conference during World War II, Morocco’s major non-NATO ally designation, the Free Trade Agreement, and the Strategic Dialogue. Arif underscored these as part of a broader narrative of evolving partnership marked by trust and credibility.
This evolution has now matured into a vital alliance under the vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, who regards the United States as a strategic partner for Morocco’s development. Arif emphasized Morocco’s transformation into a strategic asset through stability, reform, and foresight under the King’s leadership.
Furthermore, Arif highlighted Morocco’s strategic geographical position, linking the United States with North Africa and beyond. The unique relationship between King Mohammed VI and former President Trump has bolstered this alliance, with the U.S. recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara serving as a testament to Morocco’s strategic importance.
The inaugural MAP Town Hall in Washington featured a diverse group of political, diplomatic, academic, cultural, and media figures, along with representatives from influential American think tanks. The event aimed to explore the past, present, and future of the strategic alliance between Rabat and Washington through panel discussions and engaging dialogues.