Mauritanian president’s state visit to France strengthens bilateral ties

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Thank you all for being here.
Mr. President, dear friend,

It is a true honor for France to host you in Paris for this state visit. Your presence sends a powerful message—one of friendship, trust and clear-sightedness in a rapidly evolving world. This visit, the first of its kind in over three decades, comes at a time when our joint responsibilities have never been greater.

The Islamic Republic of Mauritania is a key partner for France—not only because of its geography, bridging the Arab world and Africa, but also because of the path it has chosen: one of stability, dialogue and sovereignty. Its role in a Sahel region facing deep instability makes this partnership even more vital.

In this context, Mauritania is proving that a strategy of strategic independence and responsibility is not only possible but effective. I want to take this moment to commend, Mr. President, your leadership. In the face of crises, terrorism, trafficking and external pressures seeking to undermine states, we have made a shared choice: partnership, respect for sovereignty and a collective will to act in support of regional efforts to prevent further destabilization.

In a world where power dynamics are resurging and multilateralism is being questioned, Mauritania and France are championing a clear vision—one rooted in rules, cooperation, mutual respect and balance. Mauritania holds a prominent place in this vision, both across Africa, the Arab world, Europe and in international forums, including within the Francophonie.

We share strong positions on today’s most pressing challenges: climate change, ocean conservation, food security and the need to rebalance global economic systems to ensure Africa’s rightful place. This strategic relationship must now yield tangible results, and that is why we are strengthening our economic partnership.

Mauritania today stands as a land of opportunity. French businesses are already active there, creating jobs and investing. Meridiam’s $155 million investment in the Nouakchott container terminal, which employs nearly 350 Mauritanians, is a prime example. Around 40 French companies currently operate in Mauritania, providing jobs for more than 2,000 locals. But we aim to go further, faster and with greater structure—this state visit reflects that ambition. In infrastructure, energy, water, agriculture and tomorrow’s cities, we share a responsibility: to support the growth of an economy that generates jobs and meets the aspirations of young people.

I am particularly pleased to highlight a project by the French firm Razel-Bec, funded by a concessional loan from the French Treasury, which will increase water production capacity to Nouakchott by 50%. Similarly, a €40 million investment to hybridize ten thermal power plants will help build a more sustainable and resilient electricity system.

At a time when international disengagement and isolationism are on the rise, France is doubling down on solidarity-driven investment. While some long-standing partners have withdrawn their cooperation agencies over the past two years, we have expanded our project portfolio—particularly through the French Development Agency (AFD). This commitment is especially evident in our support for Mauritania’s remarkable efforts to host over 300,000 refugees in its eastern regions. I recognize the immense burden this places on your nation, and I commend your sense of responsibility.

The message is clear: in the face of global and regional imbalances, Mauritania is not alone. France will continue to stand by your side—through businesses, financing and development tools. This spirit also guides the upcoming business forum you will open in the coming days.

Finally, Mr. President, your visit to Brest to address blue economy and maritime security, and our upcoming meeting in Nairobi for the Africa Forward Summit, reflect a broader ambition: to fundamentally renew the relationship between our two countries and between France and the African continent. A relationship built on investment, innovation, youth and civil society—one that embraces its political, economic and strategic dimensions.

We have a historic responsibility—not to passively endure global changes, but to shape them. Together, our two nations are rising to this challenge. Over the years, we have grown to know and respect each other. I have witnessed your determination and courage in the most difficult moments, and I am proud to welcome you today for this state visit alongside your First Lady, your ministers and your delegation, my dear friend, Mr. President.

Mr. President, thank you for your trust, for your friendship toward France, and for the new chapter we are writing together. Thank you very much.