Honoring a pivotal diplomatic gesture
In a symbolic move, Morocco has designated a major highway slicing through the southern part of the country and into the Western Sahara region—disputed by Sahrawi separatists—as the Donald J. Trump Highway. This decision, personally approved by King Mohammed VI, follows the former U.S. president’s groundbreaking recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the territory in December 2020.
The newly christened Tiznit-Dakhla Expressway spans an impressive 1,055 kilometers, making it the longest road infrastructure in Africa. In a letter addressed to Donald Trump and made public, King Mohammed VI expressed his gratitude for the U.S. leader’s historic stance, calling it a gesture of friendship that “will forever remain etched in the memory of Moroccans.”
The diplomatic breakthrough behind the tribute
The highway’s new name underscores the significance of the 2020 U.S. decision to back Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara, a shift that paved the way for the North African kingdom’s normalization of ties with Israel. The move was widely seen as a turning point in the decades-long conflict over the territory, which has been under Moroccan control since Spain’s withdrawal in 1975 but remains a non-self-governing area according to the United Nations.
The conflict pits Rabat’s government against the pro-independence Polisario Front, backed by Algeria. In a reciprocal message to King Mohammed VI on the occasion of his 27th accession anniversary, Donald Trump reiterated his unwavering support for Morocco’s proposal, calling it “the only foundation for a just and lasting solution.” Any alternative, he warned, would merely perpetuate the status quo—a scenario he deemed unacceptable.
A highway steeped in geopolitical symbolism
The decision to name the highway after Donald Trump also reflects the deepening ties between the two nations. Trump’s announcement on social media captured the moment’s significance: “Thank you to His Royal Highness Mohammed VI… What an immense honor! I can’t wait to drive the entire length of this magnificent highway—hopefully soon!” he posted on Truth Social, highlighting the personal dimension of this diplomatic gesture.
The Tiznit-Dakhla Expressway now stands as both a monumental infrastructure achievement and a testament to the enduring alliance between Morocco and the United States, with the highway serving as a physical reminder of the geopolitical shifts reshaping the Maghreb.