In Rabat, U.S. Embassy celebrates America’s 250th Independence Day, friendship with Morocco almost as old

The U.S. Embassy in Rabat marked the 250th anniversary of American independence on June 9 during its annual National Day reception, held for the first time at the historic Chellah site in Rabat.

The event brought together senior Moroccan officials, diplomats, and representatives from the public and private sectors, highlighting nearly 250 years of friendship between the United States and Morocco. The embassy recalled that Morocco was the first country to recognize U.S. independence, laying the foundations for one of America’s oldest diplomatic relationships.

In his remarks, U.S. Ambassador to Morocco Duke Buchan III said the celebration honored «a partnership rooted in history, strengthened by trust, and focused firmly on the next 250 years». He also highlighted efforts to expand economic and people-to-people ties, including initiatives supporting King Mohammed VI’s vision of the Moroccan Sahara as a hub for transatlantic partnership and opportunity.

The embassy also pointed to the longstanding American presence in Morocco, from the American Legation in Tangier to the recently inaugurated U.S. Consulate General in Casablanca. The evening concluded with a fireworks and drone show symbolizing the enduring friendship between the two countries.