250 years later, America’s ties to its first and oldest friend are getting even stronger
In 1777, Morocco became the first nation to recognize the United States. I was reminded of that history not in a textbook, but in the Pentagon, seated across from senior American defense officials, a…
In 1777, Morocco became the first nation to recognize the United States. I was reminded of that history not in a textbook, but in the Pentagon, seated
Read Full Story at The Hill →Why This Matters
The enduring U.S.-Morocco relationship isn’t just a historical footnote—it’s a strategic anchor in an era where Washington seeks reliable partners in volatile regions. Beyond nostalgia, this alliance now carries weight in counterterrorism, economic corridors, and Washington’s broader North Africa policy, where Morocco’s stability contrasts with the fragmentation seen elsewhere in the Maghreb.
Background Context
Morocco’s 1777 recognition of the U.S. predated the Revolutionary War’s outcome and was formalized in the 1786 Treaty of Peace and Friendship, making it the longest unbroken diplomatic tie between Washington and any foreign government. Unlike more transactional alliances, this bond was rooted in shared resistance to European colonial pressures, a legacy that now informs modern cooperation on issues like Sahara stability and maritime security.
What Happens Next
Expect deeper military coordination as Morocco solidifies its role as a counterterrorism hub for U.S. Africa Command, while trade talks may expand beyond phosphates to critical minerals needed for defense and green energy. The wildcard remains Washington’s balancing act between Rabat’s autonomy in Western Sahara and broader regional expectations of a negotiated solution.
Bigger Picture
This partnership exemplifies how Washington’s oldest ties often align with its most forward-looking interests—leveraging historical trust to address modern challenges. As U.S. rivalry with China intensifies, nations like Morocco offer rare combinations of geopolitical alignment, infrastructure access, and economic pragmatism in regions where alternatives are scarce.
