French President welcomed Mauritania’s President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani at the Élysée Palace in Paris this Wednesday.
With the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi just one month away—scheduled for May 11-12 and symbolizing renewed France-Africa partnerships—this state visit underscores France and Mauritania’s commitment to deepening political, cultural, and economic collaboration.
Upon the Mauritanian leader’s arrival, both heads of state addressed the press.
Watch the joint statement
Joint press statement following Mauritania’s state visit to France
Ladies and Gentlemen, esteemed guests, thank you for being here today.
Mr. President, my dear friend,
It is an honor for France to host you in Paris for this state visit. Your presence sends a powerful message—one of friendship, trust, and clarity in a rapidly changing world. This visit marks the first of its kind in over three decades, arriving at a time when our shared responsibilities have never been greater.
Mauritania stands as a vital partner for France—geographically, at the crossroads of the Arab world and Africa, and strategically, through its commitment to stability, dialogue, and sovereignty. Its role in a Sahel region facing severe instability cannot be overstated.
In these challenging times, Mauritania demonstrates that a path of strategic independence and responsibility is not only possible but essential. Mr. President, I commend your leadership in confronting crises, terrorism, trafficking, and external pressures that threaten regional stability. Together, we uphold shared values: partnership, respect for sovereignty, and collective action to prevent further destabilization.
Amid shifting global power dynamics and challenges to multilateralism, Mauritania and France champion a rules-based international order grounded in cooperation, mutual respect, and balance. Mauritania’s voice carries weight across Africa, the Arab world, Europe, and international forums, including La Francophonie.
Our nations align closely on pressing global challenges: climate change, ocean preservation, food security, and the need to rebalance global economic structures to empower Africa. This strategic relationship must yield tangible results, which is why we are reinforcing our economic partnership.
Mauritania today is a land of opportunity. French businesses are already driving growth, creating jobs, and investing in the country. Meridiam’s €155 million investment in Nouakchott’s container terminal, employing nearly 350 Mauritanians, exemplifies this commitment. Close to 40 French companies already support over 2,000 local jobs. We aim to accelerate this momentum through structured initiatives spanning infrastructure, energy, water, agriculture, and sustainable urban development—all critical to fostering job creation and meeting the aspirations of young Mauritanians.
Notably, a project led by French firm Razel-Bec, backed by a concessionary loan from France’s Treasury, will boost Nouakchott’s water production by 50%. Additionally, a €40 million investment to hybridize ten thermal power plants will strengthen the country’s energy resilience. In an era of global disengagement, France reaffirms its dedication to solidarity-driven investments. While some historical partners have reduced cooperation efforts, we have doubled our project portfolio—particularly through the French Development Agency (AFD)—supporting Mauritania’s remarkable initiative to host over 300,000 refugees in its eastern regions. I deeply respect your nation’s commitment to this humanitarian effort.
Our message is clear: Mauritania is not alone. France stands by its side through business investments, financial support, and development tools. This vision aligns with the upcoming business forum you will inaugurate, further cementing our joint ambitions.
Mr. President, your visit to Brest to discuss blue economy and maritime security—and our upcoming participation in the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi—reflect a broader ambition: to redefine the France-Mauritania relationship and Africa-France ties as a whole. This partnership is rooted in investment, innovation, youth engagement, and civil society collaboration—boldly embracing its political, economic, and strategic dimensions.
We share a historic responsibility: not to passively observe global shifts but to shape them. Mauritania and France are committed to this endeavor. Over the years, we have grown to know and respect each other. I have witnessed your unwavering determination and courage in the face of adversity. It is an honor to welcome you, Madame la Première Dame, your ministers, and your delegation today for this state visit.
Mr. President, thank you for your trust, your friendship toward France, and for writing this new chapter in our shared history. Thank you.
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