U.S.–Morocco Relations: Political, Economic, Cultural & Security Ties

The United States and Morocco enjoy one of the world's oldest continuous diplomatic relationships, dating to 1787 when Morocco became one of the first nations to recognize U.S. independence. Today, the partnership spans four pillars.

Political & Diplomatic

• Strong alignment on regional stability, counterterrorism, Western Sahara (U.S. recognizes Moroccan sovereignty, 2020).
• Regular high-level dialogue; Morocco is a Major Non-NATO Ally (2004).

Economic & Trade

• U.S.–Morocco FTA (2006) – Only U.S. FTA with an African nation. Bilateral goods trade ~$3B (2019): U.S. exports $1.7B, imports $1.2B.
• Key sectors: aerospace, automotive, agriculture, phosphates, textiles, energy.
• U.S. is a top foreign investor; American firms (Cargill, 3M, Pfizer, GE, Citibank) have major operations.

Security Cooperation

• Intelligence sharing, joint exercises (African Lion), border security, cyber defense.
• Morocco hosts U.S. military transits; contributes to Global Coalition vs. ISIS.
• 2018 Security Cooperation Agreement deepened institutional ties.

Cultural & People-to-People

• Peace Corps (since 1963), Fulbright, American Language Centers, American University of Tangier (AUT).
• Moroccan diaspora in U.S. (~100K); growing tourism (Marrakech, Fez, Sahara).
• Shared values: religious tolerance (Morocco's 2011 constitution), interfaith dialogue.

Outlook

The relationship is strategic, multifaceted, and deepening—anchored by shared security interests, the FTA, and Morocco's role as a stable, reform-oriented gateway to Africa.