Morocco’s Ambassador to the US, Youssef Amrani, has lauded the robust ties between Rabat and Washington. Amrani credited former US President Donald Trump’s administration for fostering these strong bilateral relations.
Amrani shared these remarks during an interview featured by the Hudson Institute, highlighting the continued cooperation between the two nations.
Strategic Partnership
Amrani emphasized ongoing collaboration with the US on various issues across the Middle East and Africa. He noted the ambition and leadership of both countries, driven by King Mohammed VI and previously by King Hassan II, alongside President Trump.
President Trump’s decision to recognize Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara in December 2020 marked a key moment. This decision holds significant importance for Morocco.
Western Sahara and UN Resolution 2797
Amrani addressed the recent momentum following the UN Security Council’s Resolution 2797 on October 31. This resolution acknowledged Morocco’s Autonomy Plan as a credible solution to the Western Sahara dispute.
The ambassador pointed out that no country opposed the resolution, with only three nations abstaining. This outcome underscores the growing international support for Morocco’s position.
Amrani emphasized that autonomy is now at the core of the UN’s approach. It serves as a legal initiative aligned with the UN charter and principles of international law.
He further credited King Mohammed VI’s leadership for advancing the resolution. Morocco has positioned itself as a key player in regional stability.
The resolution seeks a credible and pragmatic political solution based on Morocco’s Autonomy Plan. The Security Council has now accepted this plan as a viable path forward.
Concerns Regarding Iranian Interference
Amrani reiterated Morocco’s concerns regarding regional stability, especially regarding Iranian interference. He emphasized Morocco’s long-held worries about the situation.
Morocco severed ties with Tehran in 2018. Amrani recalled this decision, highlighting the kingdom’s firm stance.
Polisario and Alleged Ties to Hezbollah
The ambassador cited evidence of connections between the Polisario Front and Hezbollah. These connections have raised significant concerns for Morocco.
Amrani stated that the US is considering the Polisario Front as a terrorist movement. This reflects the seriousness of the alleged connections.
The US Congress published a bill in July urging the designation of Polisario as a foreign terrorist organization. This bill details Polisario’s alleged collusion with Iran and involvement in violence.
The congressional bill alleges Polisario’s documented history of ties with Iran, dating back to 1980. This relationship has long been a source of concern.
Military Cooperation
Amrani highlighted the extensive US-Morocco ties across various sectors, including military cooperation. The African Lion military drill exemplifies this collaboration.
Morocco has hosted the African Lion exercise for several years. This year’s edition involved military officials from multiple nations, including the US, to combat organized crime and terrorism.
Amrani emphasized the importance of shared responsibility in addressing extremism. He stressed that Islam is not a religion of hate.
He noted the withdrawal of European countries from the Sahel region, underscoring the critical need for security and stability.
Amrani highlighted the mutual trust between the US and Morocco, particularly in military cooperation. Morocco utilizes US military equipment, including F-16s and C130s.
He recalled Moroccan pilots receiving training in the US cementing a shared vision for the future. Morocco is an active participant in NATO’s Mediterranean dialogue.
Enduring Economic Ties
Amrani referenced the long-standing Free Trade Agreement between the US and Morocco. This agreement is crucial to bilateral trade.
He acknowledged existing tariffs but noted ongoing efforts to align policies with mutual priorities. Morocco’s diplomacy prioritizes free trade, political dialogue, and stability.
The US-Morocco bilateral trade agreement has been in effect since January 1, 2006. This agreement has significantly boosted trade between the two nations.
In 2024, the US trade surplus with Morocco has reached $3.4 billion since the agreement began. It is a substantial increase from $35 million in 2005.
US exports to Morocco reached $5.3 billion in 2024, a 37.3% increase from the previous year. Meanwhile, US imports from Morocco reached $1.9 billion, 12.3% of 2023.
Morocco ranks as the 46th largest export market for US goods. This signifies the importance of the trade relationship.
Amrani highlighted the historical ties between Morocco and the US. He noted that Morocco was the first country to recognize US independence and has the oldest unbroken treaty with an Arab and African nation.
Morocco’s Economic Potential
Amrani promoted Morocco’s economic strengths, focusing on the country’s stability and opportunities. The ambassador emphasized Morocco’s assets for potential growth.
He emphasized the growth Morocco has had in its industrial sector, which includes automotive and aeronautics. Morocco is becoming a manufacturing hub.
Amrani expressed that the Moroccan market appeals to investors worldwide. Morocco is becoming a hub for various industries.
He emphasized Morocco’s human capabilities. These capabilities help attract foreign investments.
Amrani underscored the significance of projects like the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline. This project aims to supply electricity to numerous African nations.
Morocco has consistently highlighted the importance of the pipeline project. It aims to provide energy for at least 400 million people and support vital industries.
