Mauritania's President Heads to Turkey for Climate Change Summit

Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani departed from Nouakchott early on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, to attend the 31st Conference of Parties (COP 31) in Antalya, Turkey. The conference is part of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. President Ghazouani was seen off at Nouakchott International Airport by several high-ranking officials, including Interior Minister Mokhtar Ahmed Bousif and Foreign Minister Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug.

The President is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including First Lady Dr. Mariam Fadel Dah, Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development Massouda Bent Baha Ould Mohamed Laghzaf, and Mauritania's Ambassador to Ankara, Cheikh Sid Ahmed El Baka Ould Hamadi. Other members of the delegation include the Minister Delegate to the President's Office, Nani Ould Achrougue, and President's Advisor, Lalia Camara.

The 31st Conference of Parties aims to address pressing global issues related to climate change. As a significant player in regional and global efforts to combat climate change, Mauritania's participation is crucial. President Ghazouani's attendance demonstrates the country's commitment to finding solutions to this pressing issue.

Climate change has severe implications for Mauritania, including rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and increased desertification. The country's involvement in international efforts to mitigate these effects is vital. The President's presence at COP 31 provides an opportunity for Mauritania to engage with other nations and stakeholders on this critical issue.

During his trip, President Ghazouani is expected to engage in discussions with world leaders and other stakeholders on strategies to address climate change. The conference will also provide a platform for countries to share their experiences and best practices in tackling this global challenge.

The Mauritanian government's efforts to address climate change are part of a broader strategy to promote sustainable development and protect the country's natural resources. The President's participation in COP 31 reflects the government's commitment to these goals and its recognition of the need for international cooperation to address this pressing issue.

President Ghazouani's trip to Turkey will also provide an opportunity for Mauritania to strengthen its bilateral relations with other countries and promote its interests on the global stage. The conference will conclude with a series of agreements and commitments aimed at addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development.

Key points

• Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani attends the 31st Conference of Parties in Turkey to address climate change.