US President Donald Trump expressed gratitude to Morocco's King Mohammed VI after the North African nation named a newly constructed highway after the American leader. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote: "Thank you to Highly Respected Mohammed VI, the King of Morocco — such a great honor." He added that he hoped to travel the entire length of the road "someday, hopefully soon."
Highway Details and Route
The highway, officially called the "President Donald J. Trump" highway, spans 1,055 kilometres. It runs from Tiznit in southern Morocco to Dakhla, a city located in Western Sahara — a territory whose political status remains disputed internationally. According to TRT Africa, the road represents a significant infrastructure project for the region and a notable diplomatic gesture from Rabat.
Historical Ties Between Washington and Rabat
The naming of the highway underscores the long-standing relationship between Morocco and the United States. The two countries share the longest unbroken treaty of friendship in American history, signed in 1786, which made Morocco one of the first nations to formally recognise the United States as an independent country. This treaty has remained in force for over two centuries, symbolising the enduring bond between the two nations.
The tribute from Morocco to a sitting US president reflects the continued warmth between both governments and signals Rabat's interest in strengthening bilateral relations under Trump's current administration. The gesture has been widely interpreted as a reaffirmation of Morocco's support for Trump's policies, particularly regarding the Western Sahara issue.
Diplomatic and Regional Significance
The 1,055-kilometre highway is expected to boost economic activity in the southern regions of Morocco and improve connectivity between Tiznit and Dakhla. It also serves as a physical reminder of the diplomatic alignment between Rabat and Washington on key regional issues. The road cuts through Western Sahara, a territory that has been the subject of a long-running dispute between Morocco and the Polisario Front, which seeks independence for the region.
In 2020, the Trump administration recognised Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara in exchange for Morocco normalising relations with Israel — a move that significantly strengthened bilateral ties. The highway naming can be seen as a continuation of that rapprochement.
Public Reaction and Media Coverage
Trump's expression of thanks on Truth Social drew attention from both American and international media. The highway naming ceremony in Morocco was attended by senior Moroccan officials, who highlighted the enduring partnership between the two nations. The gesture has been praised by supporters of Trump as a testament to his influence on the world stage, while critics have noted the controversial nature of the highway's location in disputed territory.
Regardless of political perspectives, the highway tribute underscores the unique historical relationship between Morocco and the United States — one that began in the 18th century and continues to evolve in the 21st.
