The Malian and Mauritanian ministers of environment met on the sidelines of the 2nd Forum on Climate, Peace, and Security in Nouakchott. Malijet reported on October 6, 2026, that Mali's Minister of Environment, Doumbia Mariam Tangara, congratulated Mauritania on the forum's success. She expressed gratitude to Mauritanian authorities for their hospitality, speaking on behalf of Mali's Transitional President, General Assimi Goïta.
The meeting focused on common challenges faced by both countries in the Sahel region, including climate change, desertification, land degradation, and increasing pressure on natural resources. The discussions covered a wide range of topics, such as biodiversity, environmental information, innovative financing, pollution control, environmental education, the Great Green Wall, and climate security.
Both parties reviewed their bilateral cooperation protocol from 2015 and agreed to update it through diplomatic channels. They also decided to establish a follow-up mechanism with designated focal points in both countries. This move aims to enhance cooperation on environmental and climate issues, promoting a Sahelian solidarity approach.
Minister Doumbia assured that Mali is committed to strengthening environmental and climate cooperation with Mauritania. This cooperation is crucial in addressing climate-related challenges that transcend national borders, requiring concerted regional responses. The two countries' efforts reflect their willingness to collaborate in the face of shared environmental concerns.
The updated protocol and follow-up mechanism are expected to facilitate more effective cooperation between Mali and Mauritania. This strengthened partnership will help address pressing environmental issues, such as land degradation and pollution, which affect the region's ecosystems and inhabitants.
The Great Green Wall initiative was among the topics discussed, highlighting its importance in combating desertification and promoting sustainable development in the Sahel region. Both countries recognize the need for innovative solutions to address these challenges and ensure a more sustainable future.
The enhanced cooperation between Mali and Mauritania demonstrates a shared commitment to addressing environmental and climate challenges in the Sahel region. By working together, both countries aim to develop effective strategies for mitigating the impacts of climate change and promoting sustainable development.
Key points
- Mali and Mauritania have agreed to update their 2015 bilateral cooperation protocol to enhance environmental cooperation.
- The two countries will establish a follow-up mechanism with designated focal points to monitor cooperation efforts.
- The strengthened partnership aims to address shared environmental challenges, such as climate change, desertification, and pollution, in the Sahel region.
