In a recent analysis published in ABC , José Antonio Gorbegui, a professor of American studies and director of the Franklin Institute at Alcalá University, discussed the impact of the return of former U.S. President Donald Trump on Spain’s relations with Morocco. He emphasized that this return might compel Madrid to reassess its strategies toward Rabat.
But what does Trump’s return really mean for Spanish politics? Has the balance of power in the region shifted due to these changes in American positions? Is Spain ready to move beyond traditional factors in dealing with Morocco, or will political and economic pressures influence its stance? These are some of the many questions that arise with these changes.
The Historic Relationship Between Morocco and the United States
Gorbegui points out that the relationship between Morocco and the United States is not new; it dates back to the 18th century when Morocco was the first country to recognize the independence of the United States from Britain. This long-standing relationship creates shared interests and strategies, but it could face new challenges with Trump’s return.
American Political Shifts and Their Consequences for the Sahara
One of the key moments in this relationship was Trump’s decision in December 2020 to recognize Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara. This wasn’t just a symbolic move; it was a strategic shift that could reshape the balance of power in the region.
This American position wasn’t just a diplomatic gesture, it was also reflected in other actions, such as the CIA’s update to its The World Factbook database, which included a map showing the Sahara as part of Moroccan territory.
What does this change in American vision mean? Will it have a tangible impact on the positions of other countries?
European Positions: From Hesitation to Support
Trump’s 2020 statement did spark changes in the positions of several European countries. In March 2022, Spain decided to support Morocco’s autonomy plan for the Sahara.
France, in turn, went further in July 2024 by supporting Moroccan sovereignty over the region.
So, are these European shifts following the trend of American policies, or is Europe striving to maintain an independent balance? How will other European countries be influenced by these changes in American policies?
Trump’s Return: A New Boost for Morocco and New Diplomatic Challenges for Spain
José Antonio Gorbegui suggests that Trump’s return could provide Morocco with a renewed boost to strengthen its position internationally, particularly regarding the Sahara issue. Will Spain be able to cope with this growing pressure? Could this scenario push Morocco to adopt even firmer positions on the Sahara, presenting Spain with additional diplomatic challenges?
U.S. and Morocco: A Strengthened Alliance?
Trump’s return might prompt Morocco to adopt more rigid stances on the Sahara issue, placing Spain in the position of facing new diplomatic challenges. Will Morocco continue to push for increased international recognition? The role of the United States in this dynamic is becoming more central, and Spain might find itself in a delicate situation as these developments unfold.
The world of politics is changing rapidly, but at the heart of these changes, strategies and historical relationships continue to play a central role. The question of how Trump’s return will affect Spain’s policy toward Morocco remains open and requires close attention.
