Duke University | Spring and Fall 2026

In 1777, Morocco, under Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah, became the first country to recognize the independence of the United States. Soon thereafter, the two nations signed the Moroccan–American Treaty of Friendship in 1786, widely regarded as one of the longest unbroken treaties in U.S. history.

To commemorate the 240th anniversary of this landmark treaty, the Duke University Middle East Center (DUMESC) will host a series of events during the Spring and Fall 2026 semesters. In addition to displaying printed copies of the treaty alongside historical maps, the Center will organize a range of activities, including a Moroccan film screening; sessions on calligraphic arts led by Moroccan artists; and events with Duke in the Arab World students focused on Moroccan music and dance, among other offerings. Throughout both semesters, DUMESC will also celebrate forty years of Duke programming and academic exchanges with Moroccan academic institutions.

During the Spring 2026 semester, the final week of March will culminate in a two-day conference exploring the history, diplomacy, and cultural significance of Moroccan–American relations.

These events will bring together scholars, diplomats, cultural leaders, and students to reflect on the legacy of this enduring partnership while envisioning its future in a rapidly changing global context.

Program Overview: Conference

Friday Afternoon — March 27, 2026

  • Keynote Address: Friendship Across the Atlantic: 240 Years of Moroccan–American Diplomacy
  • Opening Reception: Featuring Moroccan music and cuisine

Saturday Morning — March 28, 2026

Panel 1: From Recognition to Treaty — Historical Foundations of Moroccan–American Friendship
This panel will trace the origins of Moroccan–American diplomacy, examining Morocco’s early recognition of the United States, the 1786 Treaty of Friendship, U.S. relations with North African regions, and the archival record of the two nations’ first encounters.

Panel 2: Diplomacy in Motion — Strategic and Political Relations Across Two Centuries
This panel will highlight Morocco’s evolving role in U.S. foreign policy from World War II through the Cold War and into the present, with attention to security cooperation, regional diplomacy, and shared political interests.

Saturday Afternoon — March 28, 2026

Panel 3: Culture, Exchange, and the Future of Partnership
Focusing on cultural diplomacy, educational exchange, and migration, this session will explore how Moroccan–American relations extend beyond politics into art, education, and everyday life, while considering the future of this partnership in an increasingly globalized world.