The United States Ambassador to Morocco, Richard Duke Buchan III, expressed pride in welcoming elected representatives from the Moroccan Sahara to a special ceremony marking America’s 250th Independence Day in Rabat.
In a post on X late Thursday, June 11, 2026, Ambassador Buchan highlighted the significance of their presence, stating, « We are honored to host our partners from Laâyoune and Dakhla as we celebrate this milestone. We deeply appreciate their commitment to peace and progress in the region. »
Honoring Southern Moroccan Leadership
The ambassador’s remarks came during a gathering that included key figures from the Sahara: Moulay Hamdi Old Errechid, Mayor of Laâyoune; Ynja El Khattat, President of the Dakhla-Oued Eddahab Regional Council; and Sidi Hamdi Oild Errechid, President of the Laayoune-Sakia El Hamra region.
The photo shared alongside the message captured the ambassador alongside these leaders, underscoring the diplomatic ties between the U.S. and Morocco’s southern provinces.
U.S.-Morocco Partnership Takes Center Stage
During a larger event held Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at the historic Chellah ruins in Rabat, Ambassador Buchan reaffirmed American support for Morocco’s vision for the Sahara. Speaking before attendees from Morocco and abroad, he emphasized the region’s potential as a hub for transatlantic cooperation and economic opportunity.
« We stand firmly behind His Majesty King Mohammed VI’s initiative to transform the Moroccan Sahara into a center for partnership and development, » Buchan stated. He also reflected on the deep historical roots of U.S.-Moroccan relations, adding, « This enduring alliance, rooted in trust and shared vision, is poised to shape the next 250 years of cooperation. »
The ceremony underscored the strong diplomatic and economic bonds between the two nations, with a focus on fostering human and commercial ties for future generations.