On Thursday, October 1, 2026, Mauritania's Minister of Economic Affairs and Development, Abdullah Ould Suleiman Ould Sheikh Sidia, received French Ambassador to Mauritania, Emmanuel Besnier, at his office in Nouakchott. The meeting was attended by a high-level delegation from the French Development Agency (AFD), including Regional Director for the Mediterranean and Sahel region, Cecile Couprie, and the agency's Nouakchott office director, Inias Monkam Davira.
The discussion focused on reviewing the current state of economic and development cooperation between Mauritania and France. The two parties explored ways to enhance and expand this partnership across various sectors. They also examined the progress of development programs and projects funded by the AFD in Mauritania, emphasizing the need for closer coordination and joint fieldwork to accelerate implementation and achieve tangible results.
Minister Ould Suleiman Ould Sheikh Sidia and Ambassador Besnier highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation to boost economic growth and improve living conditions for Mauritanians. The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Development, including General Director of Financing and Economic Cooperation, Mohamed Salem Ould Nani, and Director of Agreements, Fatima Efkou.
The AFD delegation provided an update on the agency's ongoing projects in Mauritania, focusing on key areas such as infrastructure, health, and education. The Mauritanian government expressed appreciation for France's continued support and commitment to the country's development.
Both parties agreed to intensify collaboration and enhance the impact of joint development initiatives. They also discussed potential new areas of cooperation, aiming to diversify and strengthen the economic partnership between Mauritania and France.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to maintaining close communication and coordination to ensure the successful implementation of development projects in Mauritania. The two countries are expected to continue working together to promote economic growth and improve the well-being of Mauritanians.
The enhanced cooperation between Mauritania and France is expected to have a positive impact on the country's economic development and improve living standards for its citizens. Further details on the specific projects and initiatives to be implemented are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Key points
- Mauritania and France to enhance economic cooperation and development partnership.
- The two countries will focus on accelerating the implementation of development projects.
- The partnership aims to boost economic growth and improve living conditions in Mauritania.