Us ambassador in Morocco honors Sahara representatives at independence day event

U.S. Ambassador in Morocco Honors Sahara Representatives at Independence Day Ceremony

“We are grateful to our partners from Laâyoune and Dakhla for attending the event marking the 250th anniversary of American independence,” stated Richard Duke Buchan III during the gathering in Rabat.

By Staff Reporter
June 12, 2026 | 1 min read

From left to right: Richard Duke Buchan III, Sidi Hamdi Oild Errechid, Ynja El Khattat, and Moulay Hamdi Old Errechid. Rabat, June 9, 2026.

From left to right: Richard Duke Buchan III, Sidi Hamdi Oild Errechid, Ynja El Khattat, and Moulay Hamdi Old Errechid. Rabat, June 9, 2026.

In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) late Thursday, June 11, 2026, U.S. Ambassador to Morocco Richard Duke Buchan III expressed his honor at welcoming elected officials from Morocco’s southern provinces to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence. He highlighted the significance of their attendance, saying, “We extend our gratitude to our partners in Laâyoune and Dakhla for their presence and commitment to fostering peace and development in this region.”

The ambassador’s remarks were accompanied by a photo featuring Moulay Hamdi Old Errechid, president of the Laâyoune commune, Ynja El Khattat, president of the Dakhla Oued Eddahab regional council, and Sidi Hamdi Oild Errechid, president of the Laayoune Sakia El Hamra region.

Recalling the June 9, 2026 ceremony held at Rabat’s Chellah by the U.S. Embassy, Ambassador Buchan III emphasized Morocco’s vision for the Sahara region during his speech. He stated, “We support His Majesty King Mohammed VI’s initiative to position the Moroccan Sahara as a hub for transatlantic partnership and opportunity.” He further underscored the historic depth of U.S.-Morocco ties, adding, “This partnership, rooted in history and strengthened by trust, looks ahead to the next 250 years, reinforcing our dedication to deepening economic and human connections between our nations.”