Historic state visit underscores deepening Mauritania-France relations
The President of the French Republic welcomed Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, President of Mauritania, to the Élysée Palace in Paris for a landmark state visit. This meeting, the first of its kind in over three decades, comes at a critical juncture as both nations seek to reinforce their strategic partnership amid evolving global dynamics.
With the upcoming Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi scheduled for May 11–12, this visit highlights France’s renewed commitment to fostering political, cultural, and economic ties with Mauritania. The two leaders addressed the press upon the Mauritanian President’s arrival, emphasizing shared priorities and collaborative efforts.
Key discussions focus on regional stability and economic cooperation
The state visit provided an opportunity for in-depth bilateral talks, covering pressing regional and international issues. In the evening, a formal state dinner at the Élysée Palace further solidified the diplomatic engagement between the two nations.
Strengthening Mauritania’s role in a shifting global landscape
Speaking during the joint press conference, the French President underscored Mauritania’s pivotal role as a stabilizing force in the Sahel region. He praised President El Ghazouani’s leadership in promoting dialogue, sovereignty, and stability—principles that align closely with France’s own strategic vision.
The discussions also addressed shared challenges, including terrorism, illicit trafficking, and external influences seeking to undermine regional security. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a rules-based international order, emphasizing cooperation, mutual respect, and balanced partnerships.
Economic collaboration takes center stage
The visit highlighted concrete steps to deepen economic ties, with a focus on job creation and sustainable development. French investments in Mauritania are already making a tangible impact:
- Meridiam has invested €155 million in the Nouakchott container terminal, employing nearly 350 Mauritanians.
- Around 40 French companies currently operate in Mauritania, supporting over 2,000 local jobs.
- A French-backed project by Razel-Bec, funded by a concessional loan from France’s Treasury, will increase Nouakchott’s water production capacity by 50%.
- Nearly €40 million has been allocated to hybridize ten thermal power plants, enhancing the country’s energy resilience.
The French President also highlighted the importance of France’s continued solidarity investments, noting that despite global disengagement trends, France has doubled its project portfolio in Mauritania over the past two years—particularly through the French Development Agency (AFD).
Mauritania’s humanitarian leadership recognized
In a gesture of appreciation, the French President commended Mauritania’s efforts in hosting over 300,000 refugees in its eastern regions. This commitment to regional stability and humanitarian responsibility underscores Mauritania’s growing influence on the continental stage.
Looking ahead: A partnership rooted in shared ambition
The visit also set the stage for future collaboration, including an upcoming business forum and Mauritania’s participation in the Africa Forward Summit. These initiatives reflect a broader ambition to reframe the France-Mauritania relationship—one that prioritizes investment, innovation, and youth empowerment.
The French President concluded by reaffirming France’s unwavering support for Mauritania, emphasizing that both nations are charting a path forward together in an era of global transformation.