In a gesture of deep appreciation, His Majesty King Mohammed VI of Morocco has bestowed the name of former United States President Donald Trump upon a major highway linking southern Morocco to the contested Western Sahara territory. The announcement, made through the official Moroccan news agency, underscores a significant diplomatic milestone between the two nations.

The newly designated Donald J. Trump Highway spans an impressive 1,055 kilometers, making it the longest road infrastructure in all of Africa. This vital route connects Tiznit to Dakhla, two strategic cities in the region, and serves as a testament to Morocco’s commitment to regional development and international partnerships.

In a formal letter dated July 2, addressed directly to President Trump, King Mohammed VI expressed his gratitude for Trump’s pivotal role in recognizing Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara in 2020. The monarch highlighted this decision as a historic milestone that will forever be etched in the collective memory of the Moroccan people.

«In tribute to this profound gesture of friendship and peace, I have decided to name one of the kingdom’s most critical road infrastructures after President Donald J. Trump,» the king wrote. The highway’s vast expanse reflects its importance not only as a national asset but also as a symbol of the enduring bond between Morocco and the United States.

Western Sahara dispute and Morocco’s autonomy plan

The Western Sahara region, formerly a Spanish colony until 1975, remains a focal point of international debate. Rich in phosphate deposits and abundant marine resources, the territory is largely controlled by Morocco but is classified as a non-self-governing territory by the United Nations.

A decades-long conflict persists between Morocco and the Sahrawi independence movement, the Polisario Front, which is backed by Algeria. The dispute centers on differing visions for the region’s future—Morocco advocates for an autonomy plan under its sovereignty, while the Polisario Front seeks full independence.

In December 2020, the Trump administration took a decisive step by endorsing Morocco’s autonomy proposal for Western Sahara. This move was part of a broader diplomatic agreement that also facilitated the normalization of relations between Morocco and Israel.

US stance on a lasting solution

The United States has consistently maintained that Morocco’s autonomy plan represents the only viable foundation for a fair and enduring resolution to the conflict. In a public statement, the Trump administration emphasized that alternative approaches would only perpetuate the status quo, which it deems unacceptable.

In acknowledgment of King Mohammed VI’s recent gesture, President Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to share his enthusiasm. «Thank you to His Royal Highness Mohammed VI,» he wrote. «What an incredible honor! I look forward to one day driving the entire length of this magnificent highway—I hope soon!»