Rabat – The US State Department’s magazine focused on bilateral ties between the US and Morocco in its March edition’s “Post of the Month” article.
In the feature, the magazine recalled the well-established bilateral ties between the two countries and emphasized the US determination to continue boosting cooperation with Morocco at all levels.
Stressing its geopolitical position, the magazine highlighted the country’s importance as a gateway to both Africa and Europe.
“Given its proximity to neighboring Spain, which lies just 8 miles north of Tangier across the Strait of Gibraltar, Morocco is a vital portal between Africa and Europe,” the magazine wrote, citing the North African country’s cultural diversity and traditions.
The State magazine also quoted diplomats, including current US ambassador to Morocco Puneet Talwar, who has spoken on the country’s strong cooperation and partnership with the US.
“Morocco is proud to stand with us… I think it’s critical that we devote time, energy, and attention to our friends and see how we can advance areas of mutual interest, as well as work with them on the challenges we face,” he was quoted as saying.
David Fisher, Political Counselor at the US embassy in Rabat also commented on bilateral ties between the two countries, highlighting the political stability in the North African country.
“You won’t find any other country in Africa that’s as stable and as reliable an ally as Morocco,” he said.
The US is one of the countries that recognize Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces in Western Sahara.
Former US President Donald Trump signed the proclamation recognizing Morocco’s territorial integrity and sovereignty over its southern provinces in December 2020.
“It’s a real pleasure working here knowing that we’re contributing to furthering and continuing to build, our alliance with one of America’s oldest friends, partners, and allies that dates back to the founding of our own nation,” he added.
The magazine article also recalled the importance of cooperation between the two countries in terms of security and counterterrorism.
Describing Morocco as one of the largest non-NATO allies to the US, the magazine noted that the North African country plays a “pivotal role in regional security and counterterrorism efforts.”
This is reflected in the fact that Morocco is designated to host of joint military exercises with American troops annually.
The military cooperation includes the African Lion, the largest military drill that Morocco has hosted for over 18 years.
“There are more than 100 U.S.-Moroccan military engagements over a year. African Lion just gets most of the attention because it’s the largest,” said Fisher on this topic.
He described Morocco as a “real beacon of stability.”
