Mauritanian president’s state visit to Paris strengthens bilateral ties

Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani paid a historic State visit to Paris this week, marking the first such high-level engagement between the two nations in over three decades. The meeting at the Élysée Palace underscored a renewed commitment to deepening political, economic, and cultural partnerships.

Ahead of the upcoming Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, scheduled for May 11–12, this visit highlighted France’s strategic pivot toward strengthening alliances across the African continent. The two leaders addressed the press upon the Mauritanian President’s arrival, emphasizing mutual priorities in regional stability and shared global challenges.

Key moments from the visit

The discussions covered a wide range of topics, from security cooperation in the Sahel to economic collaboration in critical sectors like infrastructure, energy, and water management. The evening concluded with a formal State dinner at the Élysée Palace, where the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a forward-looking partnership.

Economic collaboration takes center stage

France and Mauritania are accelerating joint initiatives to foster sustainable development and economic resilience. Notable projects include:

• Meridiam’s €155 million investment in Nouakchott’s container terminal, creating nearly 350 local jobs;
• French company Razel-Bec’s water infrastructure project, which will boost Nouakchott’s supply by 50% through a concessional loan from the French Treasury;
• Hybridization of ten thermal power plants (€40 million investment) to enhance energy sustainability.

These efforts align with a broader strategy to empower Mauritania’s youth through job creation and economic diversification. French enterprises already employ over 2,000 Mauritanians, with 40 companies actively contributing to the country’s growth.

Shared vision for regional stability

In a region grappling with terrorism, trafficking, and external interference, Mauritania stands out for its balanced approach to sovereignty and dialogue. The visit reinforced France’s support for Mauritania’s leadership in navigating these challenges, including its role in hosting over 300,000 refugees along its eastern borders. The French Development Agency (AFD) has doubled its project portfolio in Mauritania over the past two years, reflecting a commitment to solidarity-driven investment.

Both nations also emphasized their dedication to multilateralism, climate action, and equitable global trade—principles central to the Africa Forward agenda. President Macron highlighted the importance of Africa’s voice in international forums, noting Mauritania’s influence in the Arab world, Africa, and the Francophonie.

Looking ahead: A partnership for the future

The visit culminated in a forward-looking agenda, with President Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani’s upcoming participation in the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi. The two leaders also discussed Mauritania’s focus on maritime security and the blue economy during the Mauritanian President’s recent visit to Brest.

This State visit signals a new chapter in Franco-Mauritanian relations, one rooted in mutual trust, strategic alignment, and a shared vision for a stable and prosperous Africa.