Morocco is actively engaging in international diplomacy not only through its embassies and consulates but also by leveraging powerful lobbying groups to sway governmental decisions and public administrations in favor of its territorial integrity. This approach is particularly evident as the nation navigates complex political landscapes, aiming to fortify its claims over disputed regions, including Western Sahara, Ceuta, and Melilla.
The North African country has established a multifaceted representation in Washington, D.C., employing various lobbying firms to serve its interests. Notably, recent contracts with firms such as Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, Qorvis Communications, and Scribe Strategies & Advisors amount to nearly two million dollars annually. These contracts enable Morocco to effectively communicate its positions and influence U.S. policymakers.
In a significant move, a contract with Qorvis Communications commenced on August 6, 2023, allowing the firm to operate on Morocco's behalf for an initial six-month period, with the option for a one-year extension. Qorvis specializes in strategic communication, public relations, governmental affairs, and reputation management, and is headquartered in Washington. Among its services, the firm offers lobbying efforts and government relations, which include tactics for identifying key interlocutors, accessing political leaders, crafting messages, and managing sensitive issues.
Prior to the formal start of the contract, Qorvis had already begun its operations by releasing a statement on August 1 regarding a conversation between President Donald Trump and King Mohammed VI, coinciding with Morocco's Throne Day celebration. This initial action highlighted the reaffirmation of U.S. support for Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara and Washington's backing of Morocco's autonomy plan. This timing illustrates Morocco’s strategy to maximize its relationship with the Trump administration and secure U.S. support for its territorial claims, especially concerning Western Sahara.
The lobbying efforts extend beyond Western Sahara to include Ceuta and Melilla, as well as the jurisdictional waters of the Canary Islands. Following the recent influx of Moroccan nationals into Ceuta, questions arise about the narratives being constructed in Washington regarding Morocco and the actors responsible for shaping these narratives.
The team advising Morocco consists of five individuals, including Samantha Sault, the president and editorial director of Qorvis, and Rich Masters, a partner at the firm. Sault has been recognized multiple times by Washington Life as one of the most influential individuals under 40 in the capital, underscoring her impact within political circles.
Qorvis's role is critical in transforming political interests into effective messaging, relationships, and influence. According to documents submitted to the U.S. Department of Justice, this service is set to cost Morocco approximately $35,000 per month, translating to an annual expenditure of $420,000. The firm has a notable history in the Middle East, having previously worked with the governments of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia while also providing services for other nations, including China and Equatorial Guinea.
Moreover, Morocco's influence strategy in Washington mirrors those employed by Gulf monarchies over the years. The Moroccan embassy operates within a broader ecosystem of lobbying firms, legal advisors, public relations experts, think tanks, consultants, and former officials who collectively assist Rabat in establishing its positions in Washington. Ambassador Youssef Amrani, who also serves as Secretary-General of the Union for the Mediterranean, plays a pivotal role in this network. His extensive diplomatic experience, particularly regarding the Sahara issue, has been instrumental in advancing Morocco's interests.
In addition to Qorvis, Morocco has engaged Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck to provide governmental relations and public relations services. This one-year contract, which began on March 13, 2023, includes a monthly fee of $65,000, with Ed Royce, a former Congressman, leading the initiative. The firm’s international client roster also features prominent entities such as the Saudi Foreign Ministry and the embassies of Mexico and Sri Lanka.
Furthermore, Scribe Strategies & Advisors has been contracted to offer strategic consulting and governmental affairs services since July 2025. Their focus is on strengthening U.S.-Morocco relations, especially in investment and trade, while advocating for Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara. This adds to Scribe's portfolio of African clients, which includes the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Ivory Coast.
Another key player, DGA Group, has been providing strategic advisory services to OCP North America, a Moroccan phosphate fertilizer company, since February 2026. Their monthly fee of $42,500 allows OCP to position itself not merely as a foreign investor but as a vital partner in achieving U.S. goals for price reduction, particularly in the fertilizer sector. This strategic framing played a role in President Trump's decision to suspend tariffs on Moroccan phosphate fertilizers.
Additionally, Finn Partners has entered into a contract with Morocco's National Tourism Office for $50,000 to plan and support marketing events in key U.S. cities. Their efforts involve lobbying, public relations, and economic development strategies aimed at promoting Morocco as a tourist destination.
As reported by elespanol.com.
