Mauritania's Foreign Minister Meets Canadian Counterpart in Cambodia

Mauritania's Foreign Minister Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug met with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand on the sidelines of the 48th Ministerial Conference of the International Organization of La Francophonie in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The meeting took place at 3:01 pm local time on November 14, 2026. Merzoug is the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Mauritania, responsible for African and Mauritanian affairs abroad.

The two foreign ministers discussed ways to strengthen and develop cooperation between Mauritania and Canada in various fields. They also reviewed several international issues and efforts to coordinate positions and unify views on matters of common interest. The meeting was attended by Mauritania's special envoy to the President at the International Organization of La Francophonie, Kemba Ba, and Mauritania's ambassador to Cambodia, Mohamed Abdullah Flali.

The International Organization of La Francophonie is an international organization that comprises 84 member states, with French as an official language. The organization aims to promote cooperation, solidarity, and dialogue among its member states. The 48th Ministerial Conference brought together foreign ministers from member states to discuss global issues and the organization's activities.

Merzoug and Anand's meeting highlights the importance of diplomatic relations between Mauritania and Canada. Both countries have been working to strengthen their ties in recent years, with a focus on economic, cultural, and security cooperation. The meeting also underscores the significance of the International Organization of La Francophonie as a platform for dialogue and cooperation among its member states.

The discussions between Merzoug and Anand reflect the ongoing efforts of both countries to address global challenges and promote peace and stability. The meeting also demonstrates the commitment of Mauritania and Canada to multilateralism and cooperation through international organizations like La Francophonie.

Further details about the meeting, including specific agreements or outcomes, have not been made publicly available. However, the encounter between Merzoug and Anand is seen as a positive step in strengthening bilateral relations between Mauritania and Canada.

The Mauritanian Foreign Ministry has not released additional information about the meeting's outcomes or future plans. The ministry's focus on promoting cooperation and dialogue with other countries is expected to continue, with a emphasis on addressing global challenges and promoting Mauritania's interests abroad.

Key points

• Mauritania and Canada are working to strengthen cooperation in various fields, including economy, culture, and security.