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What the US stands to lose by alienating Morocco

After Donald Trump's election, abrupt and extreme changes in US policy threaten its relationship with longtime ally Morocco.
U.S. President Barack Obama (R) shakes hands with King Mohammed VI of Morocco in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, November 22, 2013.  REUTERS/Jason Reed (UNITED STATES - Tags: POLITICS ROYALS) - RTX15P2W

With a new administration in the White House, Morocco’s need for foreign political and economic support could lead it to turn away from its long and friendly relationship with the United States and look more toward China and Russia to safeguard its interests.

Morocco is a traditional ally to the United States. The kingdom was brought up multiple times during the 2016 US presidential campaign — but not for praise. At times, Morocco became the center of Donald Trump’s efforts to discredit Hillary Clinton, as he described her relations with Morocco as a “pay-for-play” policy.

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