Mauritania's Foreign Minister Attends 48th Francophonie Ministerial Conference in Cambodia

Mauritania's Foreign Minister, Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug, attended the opening ceremony of the 48th Francophonie Ministerial Conference in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on November 14, 2026. The conference is a precursor to the 20th Francophonie Summit and brings together representatives from member states to discuss key issues. The conference agenda includes evaluating the implementation of commitments made at the 19th summit and preparing for upcoming events.

In his address to the conference, Minister Merzoug highlighted the significance of holding the ministerial conference and the 20th summit in Phnom Penh, citing the city's rich history and cultural diversity. He praised the comprehensive report presented by France on the implementation of commitments made at the 19th summit, considering it a crucial foundation for enhancing gains and continuing efforts to build a more cohesive and dynamic Francophone community.

Minister Merzoug reaffirmed Mauritania's commitment to contributing to the Francophone dynamic and working towards translating summit decisions into practical and sustainable actions that promote the French language, cultural diversity, and the well-being of Francophone peoples. He emphasized the importance of collective mobilization, regular dialogue, and solidarity among member states in promoting the implementation of shared commitments.

The Mauritanian delegation accompanying Minister Merzoug included Ambassador Mohamed Abdullah Falali, Mauritania's ambassador to Cambodia, and Moulati Bent El Mokhtar, the country's representative to the International Organization of La Francophonie. Other attendees were Ambassador Mohamed Amin Salem, Ambassador Ashraf Abdoul, Ambassador Ahmed Mohamed Douh, Ambassador Mohamed Joub, and First Counselor Meryem Louli.

The 48th Francophonie Ministerial Conference serves as a platform for member states to discuss pressing issues and chart a course for the future of the Francophone community. The conference also provides an opportunity for countries to reaffirm their commitment to promoting the French language and cultural diversity.

The Francophone community comprises 54 member states and aims to promote the French language, cultural diversity, and cooperation among its members. The organization has been instrumental in promoting peace, democracy, and human rights, as well as supporting education, culture, and sustainable development.

Minister Merzoug's participation in the conference underscores Mauritania's commitment to the Francophone community and its goals. The conference concluded with a renewed commitment to promoting the French language and cultural diversity, as well as cooperation among member states.

Key points

• Mauritania's Foreign Minister attends 48th Francophonie Ministerial Conference in Cambodia to discuss key issues and promote the French language and cultural diversity.