🇲🇦MoroccoNorth Africa
Morocco and United States celebrate historic alliance at Chellah, looking to the future
via Le Matin4 min read
The United States Embassy in Rabat hosted its annual National Day reception at the historic Chellah site to celebrate the 250th anniversary of US independence. The event highlighted the unique relationship between Rabat and Washington, with Morocco being the first country to recognize US independence in the late 18th century. US Ambassador to Morocco, Richard Duke Buchan III, drew parallels between Chellah's 2,600-year history and the enduring Moroccan-American partnership. He emphasized Morocco's role as a "pillar of stability" in a changing world, guided by the vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, and called Morocco the US's "strongest and most reliable ally" in the region. The Ambassador reaffirmed US support for the Moroccan autonomy initiative as the sole basis for a just and lasting solution to the Moroccan Sahara issue, noting President Donald Trump's unwavering support. He also highlighted the economic opportunities in the Southern Provinces, particularly in the energy, technology, and infrastructure sectors, which are attracting increasing interest from American businesses. Concrete examples of the partnership include the recent inauguration of the new US Consulate General in Casablanca, a $350 million investment, and the more than 1,000 employees of the American mission in the Kingdom. The preservation of the American Legation in Tangier, the oldest US diplomatic property globally, was also cited as a symbol of this historic relationship. Security cooperation was
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Le Matin.
For the 2026 World Cup, FIFA has introduced a new initiative called "Super Shoutout," allowing fans to have their names displayed on the giant screens in the stadiums for $79. This service is accessible via an online platform, where supporters can select a group stage match and submit their identity at least 72 hours in advance. Purchases are limited to four registrations per order. Slots for the opening match between Mexico and South Africa sold out within hours. The display of names will occur exclusively on the giant screens of the sixteen North American stadiums and only during the pre-match period, specifically during player warm-ups. FIFA does not guarantee the exact placement on the screen or a minimum broadcast duration. A moderation committee strictly filters requests, automatically excluding any messages with political, commercial, or offensive connotations.
Noussair Mazraoui, Chamseddine Talbi, and Anass Salah-Eddine have returned to training with the Moroccan national team at their New Jersey base, offering positive news regarding their physical condition. Mazraoui, a Manchester United full-back, resumed training less than 48 hours after sustaining a shoulder injury during the 1-1 draw against Norway, which was confirmed as a minor contusion. Sunderland winger Talbi and PSV Eindhoven player Salah-Eddine have also rejoined collective training. However, concerns persist for Abdessamad Ezzalzouli and Nayef Aguerd. Real Betis winger Ezzalzouli, who suffered a moderate knee ligament sprain against Norway, is expected to be out for two to four weeks, likely missing the group stage of World Cup 2026. Despite this, the medical staff intends to keep him with the squad in hopes of his return if Morocco qualifies for the round of 16. Central defender Aguerd is still undergoing rehabilitation after spring surgery and was absent from the latest collective training session. The technical staff remains optimistic about the Olympique de Marseille player's recovery timeline. The team's first World Cup match is scheduled for June 13 against Brazil at MetLife Stadium.
Morocco continues to position itself in electric mobility with the return of the EVS Mobility Expo Morocco from October 27 to 29, 2026, at the Casablanca International Fair. Organized by MIE Group in partnership with the Chinese Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products CCCME, the event has become a key continental gathering for the electric mobility ecosystem. Automakers, equipment manufacturers, charging solution providers, energy producers, startups, and investors are expected to discuss sector developments and opportunities in African markets. This edition comes as electric mobility gains traction globally, with several African countries accelerating the development of their industrial and energy ecosystems. Morocco aims to leverage its automotive industry and renewable energy investments. Visitors will explore advancements in electric and hybrid vehicles, charging infrastructure, energy storage, and sustainable mobility technologies. Product launches and demonstrations are also planned. The event will facilitate B2B meetings, bringing together businesses, suppliers, investors, and decision-makers to foster new commercial and industrial partnerships. A series of conferences and seminars will address sector challenges, including charging infrastructure, battery technologies, public policies supporting electrification, and the African market's development prospects. The organizers will also utilize their "Matchmaking" platform to facilit