Following the recognition of Moroccan independence, diplomatic relations were reinstated, elevating the diplomatic post to the rank of ambassador. The U.S. embassy was inaugurated in the capital, Rabat, on June 11, 1956, with William J. Porter serving as Chargé d’Affaires ad interim. Concurrently, the status of the Tangier Legation was transformed into a Consulate General. On October 6, 1956, Cavendish Cannon became the first U.S. ambassador to Morocco upon presenting his credentials. On September 5th, 1956, Dr. El Mehdi Mohammed Ben Aboud formally presented his credentials to U.S. president Dwight D. Eisenhower as Morocco’s ambassador to the United States.