Washington: The United States has reaffirmed its recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over its Sahara region, a move described by David Aaronson, an expert from the Washington-based think tank The Heritage Foundation, as sending “a strong message that upholds the truth and reality on the ground.” This decision is seen as paving the way for peace and regional stability.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, this statement renews the positive momentum created by the 2020 tripartite agreement and confirms the position initially communicated by former President Donald Trump to His Majesty King Mohammed VI. The reaffirmation was discussed during a recent meeting in Washington between Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nasser Bourita, and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, where Rubio reiterated the U.S. recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara.

Aaronson highlighted that the U.S. recognition under President Trump’s leadership was a significant impetus that has been followed by other countries. Under the leadership of King Mohammed VI and Trump, Moroccan-American relations are anticipated to experience a renewed vigor, with shared interests in peace, security, and prosperity.

Morocco’s historical ties with the United States were also noted by Aaronson, who recalled that Morocco was the first country to recognize U.S. independence in 1777 and remains the only African nation with a free trade agreement with the United States. He emphasized that this solid relationship is expected to continue flourishing across various sectors.

For Aaronson, the tripartite agreement and the military exercise African Lion exemplify the robust cooperation between the two nations.