Dateline: Washington – February 1, 2026 – 10:37 AM
Lead:
Washington, D.C. – On Friday evening, the American capital celebrated a rare diplomatic heritage spanning two and a half centuries between the Kingdom of Morocco and the United States. The gala event, organized by the Moroccan Embassy, was held at the prestigious “Trump Kennedy Center” and attended by high-level political and security figures from both nations.
Body:
The ceremony, attended by Wayne W. Voulé, Special Assistant to President Donald Trump and Senior Director for Middle Eastern and African Affairs at the National Security Council, and Brian J. Ellis, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for African Affairs, highlighted the historic moment of an alliance that remains the oldest of its kind for the United States.
The event also marked the launch of a special cultural program scheduled throughout 2026 at the Center, in celebration of the 250th anniversary of American independence, while spotlighting Morocco’s foundational historical role in this journey.
Ambassador’s Speech: Rooting the Partnership and Future Aspirations
In his address, the Moroccan Ambassador to Washington, Youssef Amrani, recalled the foundational moment in 1777 when Morocco became the first country in the world to recognize the independence of the United States. He affirmed that the Treaty of Friendship signed in 1786 remains “the oldest continuous treaty” of the United States.
The Ambassador underscored that this unique relationship “stands in contrast to the world’s uncertainties,” stating: “Morocco and the United States are two nations that share a deep mutual understanding and continually renew the choice to link their destinies within an active alliance.”
Amrani touched upon the contemporary embodiment of this partnership, noting that the U.S. recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over its Sahara “embodies the enduring values of sincerity.” He also highlighted the special significance of King Mohammed VI joining, as a founding member, the “Peace Council” launched by the Trump Administration.
He concluded by saying: “These past 250 years are merely a prelude to a future that will undoubtedly be promising and more ambitious.”
A U.S. Perspective on the Alliance
For his part, Elliott Birk, Legal Counsel for the “Trump Kennedy Center,” shed light on the depth of the ties, describing Morocco as “one of America’s oldest and closest allies.” He emphasized the symbolic importance of the celebration, which kicks off a full year of events at the Center.
Conclusion:
The event, which featured artistic and cultural performances, served as a moment to honor an alliance that has surpassed a quarter of a millennium. Founded on a strategic partnership renewed through shared vision and rising to contemporary challenges, it looks toward a brighter future for trans-Atlantic relations.
