Richard Duke Buchan III, the new United States Ambassador to Morocco, has arrived in Rabat and officially begun his mission, marking a fresh chapter in a bilateral relationship that spans nearly 250 years.
The U.S. Embassy announced the arrival of Buchan, who was nominated by President Donald Trump and confirmed by the Senate on October 7. Upon his arrival, the ambassador raised the American flag over his residence, a symbolic gesture celebrating “the close ties that unite our two nations.” He then presented copies of his credentials to Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, to be conveyed to King Mohammed VI.
During his confirmation hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Buchan described Morocco as “a pillar of stability” and a key partner in U.S. national security, noting his familiarity with the country from visits spanning over four decades.
A central theme of his mandate is Washington’s support for Morocco’s position on the Sahara. Buchan reiterated the U.S. position, recalling that the autonomy proposal put forth by Morocco is considered “the only viable basis” for a lasting solution to the conflict, and pledged to facilitate progress toward that goal within the UN-led political process.
On the economic front, the ambassador highlighted the strength of the bilateral partnership, citing trade that reached $7.2 billion in 2024. U.S. exports to Morocco rose by 37.3 percent, while imports from the Kingdom increased by 12.3 percent compared to 2023. Describing Morocco as a “model economic partner,” Buchan committed to encouraging more American investment, particularly in the southern provinces, agriculture, and other strategic sectors.
Security cooperation is also paramount. Buchan underscored the importance of the African Lion military exercises—the largest on the African continent—and stated his intention to strengthen already extensive military ties. Morocco has held the status of a major non-NATO ally since 2004, representing a key element of the American strategy in North Africa.
The arrival of Ambassador Buchan comes as US-Moroccan relations are described as being at an “historic” level, building on a relationship dating back to 1777, when Morocco became the first country to recognize the independence of the United States. This bond was formalized by the Treaty of Peace and Amity of 1786, the oldest unbroken treaty of the United States.
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