U.S. Lawmakers Reaffirm Praise for the Historic Partnership with Morocco, Underscore Its Status as a Trusted Strategic Ally

Members of the United States Congress, from both the Democratic and Republican parties, renewed their praise for the strength of relations between the Kingdom of Morocco and the United States of America, affirming that a partnership spanning nearly two and a half centuries has made Morocco a reliable and pivotal ally for Washington.

These remarks were made during a ceremony held Tuesday evening at the U.S. Capitol as part of the “Project Legacy Morocco” initiative. Speakers highlighted the deep historical roots of bilateral ties, tracing them back to Morocco’s 1777 decision to recognize U.S. independence—an act widely described as a diplomatically significant milestone.

Participants stressed that this historic recognition was not merely symbolic, but reflected early political foresight that laid the foundations of a strategic relationship that continues to evolve today, as the United States prepares to commemorate the 250th anniversary of its independence.

Republican Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks noted that Morocco’s early recognition paved the way for the 1786 Treaty of Peace and Friendship, which remains in force and is considered the oldest uninterrupted diplomatic treaty in U.S. history. She also recalled that the city of Tangier hosted the first U.S. diplomatic mission abroad, a lasting testament to the durability of the relationship.

The Iowa lawmaker added that Morocco occupies a unique place in U.S. foreign policy as the only African country bound to Washington by a free trade agreement, and as a designated Major Non-NATO Ally.

Democratic Representative Sanford Bishop described Moroccan–American relations as nearly as old as the United States itself, noting that the friendship has endured across historical phases and global shifts, and now encompasses key areas such as security and economic cooperation.

He emphasized Morocco’s role as a core U.S. partner and expressed his hope for further deepening cooperation in ways that advance shared interests.

Representative Jonathan Jackson highlighted the relationship’s resilience in the face of geopolitical change, arguing that its strength lies in adaptability and continuity. He added that today’s global challenges require Rabat and Washington to act as partners sharing responsibility—not merely as allies bound by history.

Republican Senator Tim Sheehy recalled the historical context of Morocco’s recognition of the United States, stating that early support helped anchor America’s standing at a formative moment. He noted that the current era of heightened security and geopolitical challenges makes preserving and strengthening historic alliances a strategic necessity.

Democratic Senator Tim Kaine underscored the special place of the Moroccan–American partnership within U.S. strategy, adding that celebrations of U.S. independence are also an opportunity to honor Morocco as America’s oldest diplomatic partner—one whose importance is set to grow in the future.

In the same vein, Democratic Representative Jimmy Panetta observed that nearly 250 years after the establishment of bilateral ties, Morocco remains among the United States’ oldest allies, with cooperation spanning diplomatic, military, and economic fields within what he described as a stable and distinguished partnership.

Source: Fes News Media

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