Mauritanian president’s state visit to Paris strengthens bilateral ties
The President of the French Republic welcomed His Excellency Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, President of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, to the Élysée Palace this Wednesday.
With less than a month before the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi on May 11-12—a milestone in renewed France-Africa partnerships—this state visit underscores the commitment to deepen political, cultural and economic collaboration between France and Mauritania.
Upon the Mauritanian leader’s arrival, both presidents addressed the press.
watch the joint statement:
Joint press statement on the occasion of the state visit of Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, President of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania.
Ladies and Gentlemen, distinguished guests, dear friends, welcome. Thank you all for being here.
Mr. President, my dear brother,
It is an honor for France to host you in Paris for this state visit. Your presence sends a powerful signal—one of friendship, trust, and clarity in a rapidly changing 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—by its geography, bridging the Arab world and Africa; by its vision, championing stability, dialogue, and sovereignty; and by its role in a Sahel region facing unprecedented instability.
In this context, Mauritania demonstrates that an independent, responsible path is possible in the face of these challenges. I would like to take this opportunity, Mr. President, to commend your leadership. Together, we confront crises, terrorism, illicit trafficking, and external influences seeking to weaken our nations. Our shared choice is clear: 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 under strain, Mauritania and France advocate for a rules-based international order founded on cooperation, mutual respect, and balance. Mauritania’s voice carries weight in Africa, the Arab world, Europe, and global forums—particularly within the Francophonie.
We align closely on critical global challenges: climate change, ocean conservation, food security, and the need to rebalance global economic systems to give Africa its rightful place. This strategic relationship must deliver tangible results, which is why we are reinforcing our economic partnership.
Mauritania today is a land of opportunity. French businesses are already active here, creating jobs and fostering growth. Meridiam’s investment of €155 million in Nouakchott’s container terminal, employing nearly 350 Mauritanians, exemplifies this. Nearly 40 French companies already employ over 2,000 Mauritanians. Yet we aim higher—faster, more structured progress. This state visit reflects that ambition.
In infrastructure, energy, water, agriculture, and urban development, we share a responsibility: to foster an economy that generates jobs and meets the aspirations of young Mauritanians. I am pleased to highlight a project by French firm Razel-Bec, supported by a concessional loan from the French Treasury, which will increase Nouakchott’s water production capacity by 50%. Similarly, the hybridization of ten thermal power plants, funded with nearly €40 million, will strengthen the country’s energy resilience.
At a time when international engagement is waning and isolationism is rising, France chooses not to retreat from solidarity-driven investment. While some long-standing partners have scaled back cooperation, we have doubled our project portfolio—particularly through the French Development Agency (AFD). This commitment is especially evident in our support for 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 straightforward: Mauritania is not alone. France remains committed—through businesses, financing, and development tools. This spirit also guides the upcoming business forum you will inaugurate.
Finally, Mr. President, your visit to Brest to address blue economy and maritime security, and our upcoming meeting in Nairobi for the Africa Forward Summit, reflect a broader ambition: to redefine the relationship between our two countries and between France and Africa. A relationship rooted in investment, innovation, youth, and civil society—one that embraces its political, economic, and strategic dimensions.
History calls on us not to passively witness global shifts but to actively shape them. Mauritania and France are determined to do so together. Over the years, we have grown to know and respect each other. I have witnessed your resolve and courage in the most trying moments, and I am proud to welcome you today for this state visit alongside Madame la Première Dame, your ministers, and delegation.
Mr. President, thank you for your trust, your friendship toward France, and for the new chapter we are writing together. Thank you very much.
