The Kingdom of Morocco under the leadership of Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah, known also as King Mohammed III, was the first country in the world to recognize the United States of America as an independent nation in 1777. Since then, the two countries have maintained an excellent relationship and Morocco represents perhaps the strongest ally of the United States in the Muslim and Arab world. For more detailed information about the historical ties between the United States and Morocco, please visit the US Embassy website at: www.usembassy.ma

   

On July 21st, 1998, 90 US Congressmen sent a letter to President Clinton urging him to increase aid to Morocco. In their letter they recalled that "in 1777, Morocco was the first government to recognize the United States as an independent nation....Morocco's commitment to democracy and human rights is an example for the region...In the economic sphere, [Morocco is committed] to free trade, privatization, a free market economy and enhanced economic trade and investment with the United States."

On July 22, 2004 the Free Trade Agreement between Morocco and the United States of America was ratified in the United States Senate, by a vote of 85 to 13.