Morocco Set for US Consulate Opening in November 2023

As Morocco prepares to welcome the US consulate in Dakhla this coming November, the event marks a monumental diplomatic moment coinciding with the anniversary of the Green March. The consulate has been operational since 2020 but is set to become officially inaugurated, showcasing a strategic pivot in the United States' approach to the long-standing Moroccan Sahara dispute. The timing of this event is crucial, especially as France also plans to open its consulate in Laayoune around the same period, further intensifying the current diplomatic climate in the region. Analysts caution that November may pose significant challenges for the Algerian government due to mounting international recognition of Morocco's claim over the Sahara. This escalation of diplomatic engagement is exemplified by the recent visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Morocco, aimed at solidifying economic and trade ties. The unfolding events suggest a potential strengthening of US influence in North Africa, which could further complicate Algeria's diplomatic strategies and position on the international stage. Overall, these developments indicate a notable shift in regional alliances and the geopolitical landscape regarding the Moroccan Sahara issue.