Mauritanian president’s state visit to France strengthens bilateral ties

Ladies and Gentlemen, esteemed guests, and dear friends—welcome.

Mr. President, my dear friend,

It is a great honor for France to host you in Paris for this state visit. Your presence here 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 shared responsibilities have never been greater.

Mauritania stands as a key partner for France, not only because of its strategic location bridging the Arab world and Africa but also due to the choices it makes—choices rooted in stability, dialogue, and sovereignty. It is a beacon of responsibility in a Sahel region grappling with profound instability.

In these challenging times, Mauritania demonstrates that a path of strategic independence and responsibility is not only viable but essential. The threats we face—terrorism, trafficking, and external interference—demand a united response. Together, we uphold the values of partnership, sovereignty, and mutual respect, working hand-in-hand to prevent further destabilization in the region.

In a world where power dynamics are shifting and multilateralism is under strain, Mauritania and France stand for a rules-based international order founded on cooperation, mutual respect, and balance. Mauritania’s voice carries weight across Africa, the Arab world, Europe, and global forums—particularly within the Francophonie.

Our shared vision extends to pressing global challenges: climate change, ocean preservation, food security, and the urgent need to rebalance global economic structures to give Africa its rightful place. Beyond political alignment, this relationship must yield tangible results.

Mauritania today is a land of opportunity. French businesses are already making their mark, creating jobs and driving investment. Meridiam’s €155 million investment in Nouakchott’s container terminal, employing nearly 350 Mauritanians, exemplifies this commitment. Close to 40 French companies provide employment for over 2,000 Mauritanians, and we aim to accelerate this momentum.

Through strategic infrastructure projects—water, energy, agriculture, and urban development—we share a responsibility to foster an economy that generates jobs and meets the aspirations of the youth. A French firm, Razel-Bec, is enhancing Nouakchott’s water supply by 50% through a concessional loan from the French Treasury. Additionally, €40 million in financing will support the hybridization of ten thermal power plants, building a more sustainable and resilient energy system.

At a time when international disengagement and self-interest prevail, France remains steadfast in its solidarity-based investments. While others have scaled back cooperation agencies, we have doubled our project portfolio, notably through the French Development Agency (AFD). This commitment is evident in our support for Mauritania’s efforts to host over 300,000 refugees in the east of the country—a testament to your country’s remarkable sense of responsibility.

The message is clear: Mauritania is not alone. France stands by its partner through business, financing, and development tools. This state visit also aligns with the upcoming business forum you will inaugurate, further cementing our shared ambitions.

Mr. President, your visit to Brest to address blue economy and maritime security, followed by our participation in the Nairobi Africa Forward Summit, reflects a broader vision: rebuilding a deeper, more forward-looking relationship between our nations and between France and Africa. One that prioritizes investment, innovation, youth, and civil society—firmly anchored in political, economic, and strategic partnership.

We share a historic responsibility: not to passively witness global transformations but to shape them. Our two countries are determined to do so together. Over the years, we have grown to understand one another deeply. I have witnessed your unwavering determination and courage in the face of adversity—and I am proud to welcome you today, along with Madame la Première Dame, your ministers, and your delegation.

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