Richard “Duke” Buchan III, the newly appointed U.S. ambassador to Morocco, reaffirmed Washington’s continued support for Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara, reiterating backing for the 2020 declaration made by President Donald Trump.
Speaking during his confirmation hearing before the U.S. Senate, Buchan emphasized that the United States maintains a consistent position on the territorial dispute, describing Morocco’s autonomy plan as the only viable solution.
“The autonomy initiative presented by Morocco is the serious, credible and realistic framework for achieving a just and lasting resolution,” Buchan said. “President Trump was clear in urging the parties to immediately engage in negotiations under this framework.”
Buchan stated that once his nomination is formally confirmed, he would work to advance diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the long-standing conflict within the framework of the United Nations.
He added that such an approach “reflects a genuine will to end this protracted file and contributes to stability and development in the region.”
The ambassador described Morocco as an “indispensable strategic partner” for the United States in North Africa. He praised the strength of bilateral relations between Washington and Rabat, citing mutual trust and close coordination on regional and international issues.
Beyond political and diplomatic ties, Buchan noted that the US-Morocco partnership is expected to grow in areas of military and security cooperation, as well as economic development. He highlighted plans to expand cooperation in sustainable development and technology transfer to support Morocco’s long-term growth.
Buchan concluded his remarks by expressing the United States’ commitment to deepening bilateral ties and promoting greater stability and prosperity in the region. He voiced optimism that the coming period would see “tangible progress” toward a final resolution of the Sahara conflict.
President Trump announced Buchan’s nomination in March, praising his prior diplomatic experience. “I am pleased to announce that Duke Buchan III will serve as the United States ambassador to the Kingdom of Morocco,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “Duke will play a key role in advancing peace, freedom and prosperity for our two countries. Congratulations to Duke and his wonderful family.”
Born in 1963 in North Carolina, Buchan studied economics at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and earned a master’s degree in investment from Harvard University. He previously served as U.S. ambassador to Spain from 2017 to 2021 during Trump’s first term.
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