Algeria has intensified its diplomatic efforts with Mauritania, a key neighbor in the Sahel region, with four high-level meetings taking place in less than two weeks. The latest meeting was between Algerian Ambassador to Mauritania, Amin Said, and Mauritanian Defense Minister, Hanen Ould Sidi, on October 6. They discussed bilateral cooperation in defense and ways to strengthen it.
On October 4, Algeria and Mauritania signed a customs agreement aimed at enhancing cooperation on their shared border, combating smuggling, and organized crime. The agreement seeks to promote coordination between the two countries' customs administrations, exchange information, and facilitate the movement of people and goods.
A Mauritanian military delegation, led by Colonel Mohamed Fal Mohamed Fadel and Colonel Ahmed Mohamed Leb Kory, visited Algeria on September 29 to discuss military cooperation and implement the joint military cooperation program. This visit follows a meeting between Algerian Foreign Minister, Ahmed Attaf, and his Mauritanian counterpart, Mohamed Salem Ould Merzouk, on September 26, in New York.
The recent flurry of diplomatic activity between Algeria and Mauritania is part of Algeria's efforts to strengthen its relations with its southern neighbors, particularly in the Sahel region. The region has become a hub of international interest, with various global powers seeking to expand their influence. Algeria's engagement with Mauritania is seen as a strategic move to secure its borders and promote stability in the region.
According to a retired diplomatic analyst, Algeria's approach has shifted from traditional cooperation to a more institutionalized partnership, encompassing diplomacy, economy, and defense. The analyst notes that Mauritania is a crucial point of connection between the Arab Maghreb, the Sahel, and West Africa, making it an important partner for Algeria.
The strengthened ties between Algeria and Mauritania are also driven by their shared concerns about regional security. The ongoing crisis in Mali has created security challenges for Mauritania, leading to tensions with Bamako. Algeria's engagement with Mauritania is seen as a way to address these concerns and promote a more stable regional environment.
Algeria's strategy to expand its presence in West Africa includes establishing a network of Algerian banks in the region, including in Mauritania, Senegal, Côte d'Ivoire, and Niger. This move is expected to enhance Algeria's economic and commercial presence in Africa and promote deeper ties with its regional partners.
Key points
- Algeria and Mauritania have signed a customs agreement to enhance cooperation on their shared border and combat smuggling and organized crime.
- The two countries have discussed military cooperation and implemented a joint military cooperation program.
- Algeria's engagement with Mauritania is part of its broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the Sahel region and West Africa.
