In a significant move that underscores the strengthening economic relationship between the United States and Morocco, members of the U.S. Embassy's economic and political teams have recently visited the Dakhla Atlantic Port. This visit is part of a broader initiative to promote investment and development in southern Morocco, following directives from former President Donald Trump aimed at enhancing economic engagement in the region.
The U.S. Embassy in Morocco shared insights about this visit through a social media post dated August 15, stating, "Members of the Economic and Political Sections visited the Atlantic Dakhla Port, a strategic project with the potential to strengthen regional connectivity and expand trade and investment opportunities." The embassy emphasized their commitment to deepening economic ties from Tangier to Dakhla and beyond, indicating a focused effort to foster growth in this vital area.
This visit coincided with Trump’s Throne Day message to King Mohammed VI, which was made public on August 1. In that address, Trump expressed his intention to encourage "economic and social development with Morocco, including in the Western Sahara territory." His administration has identified key sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, critical minerals, and defense as focal points for enhancing cooperation between the U.S. and Morocco.
The U.S. has been proactive in expanding its economic activities in this region. Notably, on July 28, the U.S. Trade and Development Agency formalized a grant agreement with ORNX Laayoune 1 to support initial engineering efforts for a proposed ammonia production facility in Laayoune, which has the potential to generate an impressive 560,000 tonnes annually. This project is set to involve various American companies, including KBR, GE Vernova, Electric Hydrogen, and Terabase, further embedding U.S. interests in Moroccan infrastructure development.
Ambassador Duke Buchan III, who has previously visited Dakhla, has consistently highlighted the port's substantial potential for boosting trade and investment, thereby contributing to the region's economic landscape. Furthermore, since 2020, the U.S. has recognized Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara, a stance reaffirmed by Trump this month as he reiterated support for Morocco’s autonomy proposal.
The developments at Dakhla Atlantic Port signify an important chapter in U.S.-Moroccan relations, aiming to enhance economic prosperity and regional stability.
As reported by en.hespress.com.
