In a gesture of gratitude, Morocco has renamed a major highway linking its southern regions to the disputed Sahara region after former US President Donald Trump. The decision, made by King Mohammed VI, underscores the depth of diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Morocco now boasts an infrastructure bearing the name of Donald J. Trump. The 1,055-kilometer expressway, connecting Tiznit to Dakhla, has been officially designated the Donald J. Trump Highway, as announced by official state media. This monumental roadway stands as Africa’s longest continuous highway, stretching through some of the kingdom’s most remote yet strategically vital desert landscapes.
In a personal letter dated July 2, King Mohammed VI informed President Trump of this honor, expressing deep appreciation for the United States’ pivotal role in recognizing Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara in 2020. «This historic acknowledgment will forever remain etched in the memory of the Moroccan people,» the monarch wrote, emphasizing the decision as a tribute to friendship and peace between the two nations.
Washington’s backing of Morocco’s autonomy plan
The move follows a landmark shift in US policy in December 2020, when Washington unexpectedly endorsed Morocco’s proposal for broad autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty for the Sahara, in exchange for the kingdom’s normalization of relations with Israel. Since then, the Trump administration consistently reiterated its full support for Rabat’s vision, describing it as «the only basis for a just and lasting solution» to the decades-long conflict.
The Sahara, a former Spanish colony rich in phosphate reserves and abundant fishing grounds, has been a flashpoint since 1975. While much of the territory is under Moroccan control, the United Nations continues to classify it as a non-self-governing territory. The dispute pits Morocco against the Polisario Front, a liberation movement backed by Algeria, which seeks full independence for the region.
In a congratulatory message to King Mohammed VI on the 27th anniversary of his accession to the throne, President Trump reaffirmed Washington’s unwavering support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative, calling any alternative approach unacceptable and counterproductive. «Any other path only prolongs the status quo,» he stated in a public statement.
Trump took to his social media platform to celebrate the highway naming, calling it «a tremendous honor» and expressing eager anticipation to one day drive its full length. «Thank you to His Royal Highness King Mohammed VI. What an incredible honor! I look forward to driving this great highway someday soon!» he posted.
