King Mohammed VI is a «respected leader and a friend of the United States», said Duke Buchan III, the newly appointed U.S. ambassador to Morocco. Speaking during his confirmation hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in Washington on Tuesday, Buchan emphasized that the Kingdom of Morocco is «a pillar of stability», and that its strategic location makes it «vital to U.S. national security». «Morocco has long been a key security partner, hosting AFRICOM's largest joint military exercise, African Lion, and serving as a capable and reliable ally in the fight against terrorism, particularly in Africa», said Buchan, whose nomination was announced in March by President Donald Trump. «If confirmed, I will work to strengthen our long-standing security partnership as we face shared challenges», he told the Senate Committee, highlighting that Morocco is one of the United States' oldest allies. «Our Treaty of Peace and Friendship dates back to 1786. For nearly 240 years, our bilateral relationship has made both Americans and Moroccans safer, stronger, and more prosperous», he noted. Buchan also described Morocco as «a model economic partner», pointing to strong trade ties between the two countries. He called for expanding opportunities for American businesses «throughout Morocco, where the U.S. can bring cutting-edge technology to support Morocco's development goals in sectors like technology, transportation, agriculture, and energy». The ambassador-designate also reaffirmed the U.S. position, reiterated on April 8 by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, recognizing Morocco's sovereignty over the Sahara and supporting «Morocco's serious, credible, and realistic Autonomy Proposal as the only basis for a just and lasting solution to the conflict». He added that the Secretary of State also echoed President Trump's call for the parties to «engage without delay in negotiations, using Morocco's Autonomy Proposal as the sole framework for a mutually acceptable solution». On this point, Buchan affirmed his commitment to «facilitating progress toward that goal». When announcing Buchan's nomination in March, President Trump said he «will play a key role as we advance peace, freedom, and prosperity for both of our countries». Duke Buchan III previously served as U.S. ambassador to Spain and Andorra (2017–2021). Born in North Carolina in 1963, he has had a long career in investment and finance.
