Mauritania’s state visit strengthens french-mauritanian ties in Paris

Ladies and Gentlemen, distinguished guests, dear friends,
Thank you for being here today.
Mr. President, my dear friend,

It is an honor for France to host this state visit. Your presence sends a powerful message—one of friendship, trust, and clarity in a rapidly shifting world. This first high-level meeting in over three decades comes at a time when our shared responsibilities have never been more critical.

Mauritania stands as a key partner for France, not only for its strategic geography bridging the Arab world and Africa but also for its unwavering commitment to stability, dialogue, and sovereignty. In a Sahel region grappling with instability, Mauritania demonstrates that a path of strategic independence and responsibility is not only viable but essential.

Together, we face immense challenges: terrorism, trafficking, and external pressures seeking to destabilize nations. Our response is clear: partnership, respect for sovereignty, and joint action to support regional efforts and prevent further fragmentation.

In an era marked by resurgent power struggles and challenges to multilateralism, Mauritania and France champion a rules-based international order rooted in cooperation, mutual respect, and balance. Mauritania’s voice carries weight across Africa, the Arab world, Europe, and in global forums like La Francophonie.

Our alignment extends to pressing global issues: climate action, ocean preservation, food security, and reshaping global economic frameworks to empower the African continent. This partnership must deliver tangible outcomes, and that is why we are reinforcing our economic ties.

Mauritania today is a land of opportunity. French businesses are already driving growth, creating jobs, and investing in the future. Meridiam’s €155 million investment in Nouakchott’s container terminal, employing nearly 350 Mauritanians, exemplifies this commitment. Close to 40 French firms already provide over 2,000 jobs for Mauritanian citizens, and we aim to accelerate this momentum.

With a focus on infrastructure, energy, water, agriculture, and sustainable urban development, our shared mission is to foster an economy that meets the aspirations of young Mauritanians. A French-led project by Razel-Bec, supported by a concessional loan from France’s Treasury, will boost Nouakchott’s water supply capacity by 50%. Additionally, a €40 million investment in hybridizing ten thermal power plants will strengthen the country’s energy resilience.

At a time when some nations retreat from international solidarity, France remains committed to impactful investments. While others have scaled back cooperation, we have doubled our project portfolio in Mauritania, particularly through the French Development Agency (AFD). This support is especially vital as Mauritania hosts over 300,000 refugees in its eastern regions—a testament to your leadership and responsibility.

The message is unequivocal: Mauritania is not alone. France stands by its side through business partnerships, financial aid, and development tools. This state visit also aligns with the upcoming business forum, reinforcing our shared vision for growth.

Your visit to Brest to address blue economy and maritime security, followed by our participation in Nairobi’s Africa Forward Summit, reflects a broader ambition: redefining the relationship between our nations—and between France and Africa—toward investment, innovation, and youth empowerment. A partnership that is unapologetically political, economic, and strategic.

History calls on us to shape the world’s future rather than merely adapt to it. Mauritania and France are answering that call together. Over recent years, we have grown closer, and I have witnessed your resolve and courage in the face of adversity. It is an honor to welcome you, your delegation, and Madame la Première Dame to this state visit.

Mr. President, thank you for your trust, your friendship toward France, and for writing a new chapter in our shared history. Merci beaucoup.