Morocco names a major western Sahara highway after donald trump

A significant symbolic gesture has solidified the strong ties between Rabat and Washington. Morocco has officially named a key expressway, connecting the southern regions of the country to the contested territory of Western Sahara, the “Autoroute Donald J. Trump.” This decision, enacted by King Mohammed VI, serves as a profound expression of gratitude towards the former United States President.

The newly christened route, previously known as the Tiznit-Dakhla expressway, now bears the name of “Autoroute Donald J. Trump.” This development was confirmed by the official Moroccan agency MAP, which also disclosed a letter from King Mohammed VI to the American president, dated July 2nd, outlining this decision.

Acknowledging historic recognition

In his correspondence, King Mohammed VI underscored his intention to honor the White House occupant for his “historic recognition in 2020 of Morocco’s sovereignty over ‘its Sahara’.” The King further conveyed that this act would “forever remain etched in the memory of Moroccans” and represented “a testament to friendship and peace.” This monumental infrastructure project spans an impressive 1,055 kilometers, making it “the longest road infrastructure across the entire African continent,” as highlighted by the monarch.

The background to this diplomatic move traces back to December 2020, when Donald Trump unexpectedly declared his support for Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara. This recognition was part of a broader agreement that also saw Morocco normalize its relations with Israel. Western Sahara, a vast desert region rich in phosphates and abundant fishing waters, was formerly a Spanish colony until 1975. While Morocco controls the majority of the territory, the United Nations still classifies it as a non-autonomous territory. A protracted conflict has simmered for five decades, pitting Rabat against the Polisario Front independence movement, which is backed by Algeria.

Trump’s appreciation for the honor

In a message addressed to King Mohammed VI for the 27th anniversary of his ascension to the throne, which MAP also made public, President Trump reaffirmed his unwavering support for Rabat’s proposal regarding Western Sahara. For the United States, the Moroccan initiative continues to be regarded as “the sole foundation for a just and lasting resolution.” Trump explicitly stated that “any alternative path merely prolongs the status quo and is unacceptable.”

Donald Trump himself publicly shared his enthusiasm about the highway naming on his Truth Social platform on July 26th. He expressed his thanks to “His Royal Highness Mohammed VI,” calling it “an immense honor!” He concluded by stating, “I look forward to one day traveling the entire length of this great highway, hopefully soon!” This announcement from Trump was made before Rabat’s official confirmation of the naming.