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Trump appoints Richard Duke Buchan III as new US ambassador to Morocco
US President Donald Trump has officially appointed Richard Duke Buchan III as the next United States ambassador to Morocco, marking a significant move to reinforce the longstanding diplomatic and strategic partnership between the two nations.
Born in 1963, Buchan brings a wealth of experience from both the worlds of finance and diplomacy. He holds a bachelor's degree in economics and Spanish from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and an MBA from Harvard Business School. Buchan's early career was grounded in global finance, beginning at Merrill Lynch where he gained corporate finance and investment banking experience, followed by leadership roles in investment firms including founding Hunter Global Investors, a New York-based asset management company. His business acumen is complemented by philanthropic work and agricultural interests.
Transitioning into diplomacy, Buchan served as the US ambassador to Spain and Andorra from 2017 to 2021. There, he dedicated efforts to deepen economic ties, promote cultural exchange, and support democratic values. His language skills, including fluency in Spanish and proficiency in French, have enhanced his diplomatic effectiveness.
President Trump's announcement via his social media platform emphasized Buchan's pivotal role in strengthening peace, freedom, and prosperity between the US and Morocco. This appointment comes amid Trump's return to the presidency, signaling a renewed focus on Moroccan-American relations, especially following the previous administration's recognition of Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara in 2020.
Buchan's diplomatic skills and financial expertise are expected to bolster bilateral trade, foster cultural and political ties, and expand American investment in Morocco—including potential support for increasing US presence and consular services in the Saharan region. This strategic partnership traces back to 1777, when Morocco became the first country to recognize the United States.
The ambassadorial nomination is pending approval by the US Senate, a necessary step before Buchan formally assumes his duties in Rabat. His appointment reflects the administration’s intent to maintain and deepen a historically significant alliance amid evolving regional and global dynamics.