The U.S. Congress has introduced a resolution celebrating enduring friendship and strong strategic partnership existing between the United States and Morocco, the first country to recognize the independence of the U.S.A.
Submitted by influential representatives Brad Schneider (Democrat) and Joe Wilson (Republican), the house resolution says December 1, 2027 will mark the 250th anniversary of the Peace & Friendship Treaty which remains the longest unbroken diplomatic relationship in United States history.
On December 1, 1777, Sultan Sidi Muhammad Ben Abdullah established relations with the United States, opening Moroccan ports to American merchants during the War for Independence.
Three years later, the Continental Congress sent its first diplomatic correspondence to the Kingdom of Morocco, expressing a desire for peace and friendship. On July 18, 1787, the United States ratified the Treaty of Peace and Friendship, also known as the Treaty of Marrakech, establishing formal diplomatic and commercial relations between the United States and the Kingdom of Morocco.
In 1821, Morocco gifted the Tangier American Legation to the United States, making it the first American diplomatic property abroad and a lasting symbol of United States-Morocco friendship.
The resolution recognizes Morocco’s commitment to religious coexistence, saying that the United States and Morocco have built a multifaceted partnership based on shared strategic, economic, and cultural interests. Furthermore, Morocco remains the only African country with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States.
The two countries cooperate closely on regional security, counterterrorism efforts, and military coordination, including participation in joint military exercises such as African Lion. They also cooperate in nuclear nonproliferation, countering illicit arms trafficking, and enhancing regional security initiatives;
The resolution stresses the importance of the United States-Morocco relationship in promoting mutual economic and security interests. It commends Morocco’s engagement in regional diplomacy, including its participation in the Abraham Accords to promote regional stability
The text encourages continued United States-Morocco cooperation in trade, security, digital transformation, and humanitarian efforts, recognizing both shared opportunities and challenges
It also supports efforts to commemorate this milestone in the lead-up to 2027, highlighting the historical and strategic importance of the United States-Morocco alliance.