Mauritanian president’s state visit to France strengthens bilateral ties

The President of France welcomed Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, the President of Mauritania, to the Élysée Palace this Wednesday for a historic state visit.

With the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi just weeks away, this meeting underscores the renewed commitment to deepening political, cultural, and economic cooperation between France and Mauritania.

Key moments of the visit

Upon his arrival, both leaders addressed the press, highlighting the significance of this first high-level visit in over three decades. The discussions centered on strengthening strategic partnerships amid evolving global dynamics.

Shared commitments and regional stability

Mauritania’s role as a stabilizing force in the Sahel region took center stage during the talks. The two presidents reaffirmed their shared vision for addressing security challenges, countering terrorism, and resisting external influences that threaten regional sovereignty.

The visit also emphasized Mauritania’s strategic position bridging North Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa, reinforcing its importance as a partner in fostering dialogue and cooperation across the continent.

Economic collaboration and development initiatives

The discussions highlighted concrete economic projects aimed at driving growth and job creation in Mauritania. French investments, including a €155 million contribution to the Nouakchott container terminal by Meridiam and the expansion of water production facilities in the capital, were cited as key examples of this partnership.

Additional projects, such as the modernization of thermal power plants and support for renewable energy, were outlined to enhance Mauritania’s infrastructure resilience. These initiatives reflect a broader commitment to sustainable development and economic empowerment in the region.

Humanitarian solidarity and regional responsibility

The visit also acknowledged Mauritania’s efforts in hosting over 300,000 refugees from neighboring countries. The French President commended the country’s humanitarian leadership, emphasizing the need for continued international support in addressing regional displacement crises.

This state visit aligns with France’s broader strategy of maintaining solidarity investments, even as other partners scale back their cooperation efforts. The French Development Agency (AFD) has significantly expanded its portfolio in Mauritania over the past two years, reinforcing long-term engagement.

Looking ahead: a partnership for the future

The leaders’ discussions extended to Mauritania’s role in global forums, including the Francophonie, where its voice carries weight in shaping international policies on climate, ocean preservation, and food security.

With Mauritania preparing to host a business forum in the coming days and both countries set to participate in the Africa Forward Summit, the visit marks a pivotal moment in redefining the France-Mauritania relationship. The focus remains on innovation, youth empowerment, and civil society engagement as pillars of this renewed partnership.

The evening concluded with a state dinner at the Élysée Palace, further solidifying the bonds between the two nations.