Mauritania's Foreign Minister, Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug, addressed the 81st UN General Assembly in New York, reaffirming Mauritania's commitment to the principles of international law and the UN Charter. He emphasized that Mauritania's foreign policy is based on good neighborliness, respect for state sovereignty, and peaceful conflict resolution. The Minister highlighted Mauritania's efforts to build a modern state, promote national reconciliation, and engage in international cooperation.

Minister Ould Merzoug outlined Mauritania's comprehensive strategy for development, which encompasses political, economic, social, and security aspects. He noted that the country has launched a national dialogue to promote democracy, the rule of law, and human rights. The Minister also emphasized Mauritania's efforts to combat poverty, inequality, and terrorism, while promoting economic growth and social development.

On the international front, Minister Ould Merzoug stressed Mauritania's commitment to multilateralism and cooperation with the international community. He highlighted the country's participation in regional and international organizations, and its support for UN peacekeeping operations. The Minister also called for a more equitable and effective international order, where all countries can contribute to global decision-making.

The Minister addressed several pressing global issues, including migration, climate change, and pandemics. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive and cooperative approach to address these challenges, and called for more support for countries of origin, transit, and destination. Minister Ould Merzoug also highlighted Mauritania's concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the Middle East.

On the Palestinian issue, Minister Ould Merzoug reiterated Mauritania's support for a just and lasting solution based on the Arab Peace Initiative and UN resolutions. He welcomed the recognition of Palestine by several European countries and called for more international action to stop Israeli settlement expansion. The Minister also expressed concern about the humanitarian situation in Lebanon, Sudan, and Yemen.

Minister Ould Merzoug concluded his address by emphasizing the need for UN reform to make the organization more effective and representative. He called for an expansion of the UN Security Council to include more African countries and for a more equitable distribution of resources. The Minister also highlighted the importance of promoting human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.

The Mauritanian delegation was led by Minister Ould Merzoug and included several senior officials, including the Ambassador to the United States and the Permanent Representative to the UN. The delegation engaged with other countries and international organizations to promote Mauritania's interests and values.

Key points

  • Mauritania reaffirms its commitment to international law and the UN Charter.
  • The country calls for UN reform to make the organization more effective and representative.
  • Mauritania emphasizes the need for a comprehensive and cooperative approach to address global challenges.

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SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.