Mauritanian President Heads to Phnom Penh for Francophonie Summit

Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani departed from Antalya, Turkey, on Friday evening, November 13, 2026, to attend the Francophonie Summit in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The President is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including First Lady Dr. Mariam Fadel Dah, Minister of State to the President's Office Nani Ould Achrouq, and Foreign Minister Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug.

The delegation also includes Mauritania's Ambassador to Phnom Penh, Mohamed Abdullah Filali, Permanent Representative to UNESCO Moulati Bent El Mokhtar, and Special Envoy to the International Organization of La Francophonie Kemba Ba. Other members of the delegation are President's advisors and officials, including Ahmed Abah, also known as Ahmiide, Lalia Kamara, and Talib Ould Seyed Ahmed.

The Francophonie Summit brings together leaders from countries that are members of the International Organization of La Francophonie, which aims to promote the French language and cooperation among its member states. Mauritania's participation in the summit reflects its commitment to strengthening ties with other French-speaking countries.

During his visit, President Ghazouani is expected to engage in discussions with other leaders on various issues, including promoting the French language, cultural exchange, and cooperation in areas such as education, economy, and sustainable development. The summit also provides an opportunity for Mauritania to showcase its achievements and priorities on the international stage.

The Mauritanian delegation's presence at the summit highlights the country's active role in international organizations and its efforts to strengthen partnerships with other countries. The visit is also seen as an opportunity for Mauritania to promote its interests and explore new avenues for cooperation with other Francophone countries.

President Ghazouani's trip to Phnom Penh is a significant event in Mauritania's diplomatic calendar, demonstrating the country's commitment to multilateralism and cooperation with other nations. The summit is expected to adopt key decisions and resolutions aimed at promoting the French language and enhancing cooperation among member states.

The President's visit to Phnom Penh will likely have a positive impact on Mauritania's relations with other Francophone countries, and will help to strengthen the country's position in international forums. The summit will also provide a platform for President Ghazouani to engage with other leaders and discuss regional and global issues of mutual concern.

Key points

• Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani attends the Francophonie Summit in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, to promote cooperation among French-speaking countries.