Mauritanian President’s state visit to Paris strengthens bilateral ties

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

It is an honor for France to welcome you to Paris for this State visit. Your presence sends a powerful message—one of friendship, trust, and clarity 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 geography, bridging the Arab world and Africa, but also because of the choices it makes: stability, dialogue, and sovereignty. Most importantly, Mauritania plays a pivotal role in a Sahel region facing severe instability.

In this context, Mauritania demonstrates that a path of strategic independence and responsibility is not only possible but necessary. Faced with crises, terrorism, trafficking, and external influences seeking to undermine states, our nations have chosen a common path: partnership, respect for sovereignty, and collective action to support regional efforts in preventing further destabilization.

In a world where power dynamics are resurging and multilateralism is being questioned, Mauritania and France advocate for a clear vision: an international order built on rules, cooperation, mutual respect, and balance. Mauritania holds a vital place in this vision, both in Africa, the Arab world, Europe, and global forums, particularly within the Francophonie.

We align closely on major contemporary challenges—the climate, ocean preservation, food security—and the need to rebalance global economic structures to give Africa its rightful place. This strategic relationship must yield tangible results, which is why we are reinforcing our economic partnership.

Mauritania today is a land of opportunity. French companies are already active here, creating jobs and investing. Meridiam’s $155 million investment in Nouakchott’s container terminal, employing nearly 350 Mauritanians, is a prime example. Close to 40 French firms already provide over 2,000 jobs to Mauritanian citizens. But we aim to go further, faster, and more strategically—this State visit embodies that ambition.

In infrastructure, energy, water, agriculture, and sustainable cities, we share a responsibility: fostering job-creating economies that meet the aspirations of young people. I am pleased to highlight a project by French firm Razel-Bec, supported by a concessional loan from the French Treasury, which will boost Nouakchott’s water supply capacity by 50%. Similarly, the hybridization of ten thermal power plants, funded with nearly €40 million, will contribute to a more resilient and sustainable electricity system.

At a time when international disengagement and isolationism are on the rise, France remains committed to solidarity-driven investments. While others have scaled back cooperation agencies in recent years, we have doubled our project portfolio, particularly through the French Development Agency (AFD). This commitment is especially evident in supporting Mauritania’s remarkable efforts to host over 300,000 refugees in its eastern regions. I deeply appreciate the burden this places on your nation and commend your sense of responsibility.

The message is clear: in the face of global and regional imbalances, Mauritania is not alone. France will stand by you through its businesses, financing, and development tools. This spirit also guides the upcoming business forum you will inaugurate.

Finally, Mr. President, your visit to Brest to discuss blue economy and maritime security, followed by our participation in the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, reflects a broader ambition: to redefine the relationship between our two countries—and between France and Africa—rooted in investment, innovation, youth, and civil society. A relationship that is unapologetically political, economic, and strategic.

We share a historic responsibility: not merely reacting to global shifts but actively shaping them. Our two nations are committed to doing so together. Over the years, we have grown to understand each other deeply. I have witnessed your determination and courage in the most trying times, and I am proud to welcome you today for this State visit alongside your wife, ministers, and delegation, my dear friend.

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