In a notable diplomatic gesture, the Kingdom of Morocco has honored former United States President Donald Trump by naming a major highway in the country’s south, extending into the disputed territory of Western Sahara, after him. This decision by King Mohammed VI underscores the strong relationship between Rabat and Washington, particularly following the US recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the region.
The newly designated route, previously known as the Tiznit-Dakhla expressway, now bears the name “Autoroute Donald J. Trump.” This was officially announced on Saturday, with details emerging from a letter sent by King Mohammed VI to the American president on July 2, confirming the decision.
Diplomatic recognition and regional shifts
In his correspondence, King Mohammed VI conveyed his profound gratitude to the former White House occupant for his “historic recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty in 2020 over ‘its Sahara’.” The King emphasized that this pivotal moment would forever be etched in the collective memory of the Moroccan people. As a tribute to this act of friendship and peace, the King chose to name one of the kingdom’s most crucial road infrastructures after Donald J. Trump. Stretching an impressive 1,055 kilometers, this infrastructure stands as “the longest road network in all of Africa.”
The context for this significant move dates back to December 2020, when Donald Trump unexpectedly endorsed Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara. This diplomatic shift came as part of a broader agreement that also saw the normalization of relations between Morocco and Israel. Western Sahara, a vast desert expanse rich in phosphates and abundant fishing waters, was a Spanish colony until 1975. While largely controlled by Morocco, the United Nations still classifies it as a non-self-governing territory. The region has been the site of a five-decade-long conflict between Rabat and the Polisario Front, an independence movement backed by Algeria, making this US recognition a critical development in Sahel politics and West Africa insider news.
Trump’s personal appreciation for the honor
Former President Trump has publicly reaffirmed his unwavering support for Rabat’s proposal concerning Western Sahara. In a recent message to King Mohammed VI, coinciding with the 27th anniversary of his accession to the throne, Trump reiterated the United States’ stance that Morocco’s plan remains “the sole basis for a just and lasting solution.” He further stated that “any other path prolongs the status quo and is unacceptable.”
On July 26, Donald Trump expressed his enthusiasm for the highway naming on his Truth Social platform. He extended his thanks to “His Royal Highness Mohammed VI,” describing the honor as “tremendous.” Trump also voiced his anticipation, saying, “I look forward to one day driving this great highway in its entire length, I hope it will be soon!” Notably, Moroccan authorities have not yet issued an official confirmation regarding Trump’s public statement about his travel aspirations.
