- Good morning. It’s my great pleasure to be here in Nouakchott. Before I start, I wish all Mauritanians a happy Eid al-Mawlid.
- I’ve had very productive meetings today with President Ghazouani and some of his cabinet ministers – and I want to take a moment to thank President Ghazouani for his hospitality and leadership over the past two years in pursuing political and economic reforms. In my meeting with the President, we discussed how best to strengthen the U.S.-Mauritania partnership given our shared security, economic, and political goals.
Remarks by Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer - The security situation in the Sahel remains a shared priority for the United States and Mauritania. As host of the G5 Sahel Executive Secretariat, Mauritania plays a key role in shaping how other G5 Sahel countries react to regional threats. In particular, Mauritania’s whole-of-government approach to combating terrorism is praiseworthy because it addresses not only the security threat, but the underlying political, economic, and development needs that – if ignored – threaten the stability and security of a country. The United States is also proud to have supported and continue to support the G5 Sahel member states on a bilateral basis as they address the lingering terrorist threats in the region. I will meet with the G5 Executive Secretariat later today to learn more about the current challenges and opportunities to improve governance, advance development, and stem the terrorist threat.
- Over the past two years, President Ghazouani’s government has committed to addressing long-standing inequities within Mauritania. Recent anti-trafficking legislation and the ongoing implementation of a National Action Plan that directly addresses the human trafficking problem are heartening. So is the recent passage of the Law of Associations that has emboldened a growing civil society here in Mauritania and the promised talk of a national dialogue toward inclusion and justice. The United States encourages these positive and inclusive steps and ongoing efforts – and stands ready to support Mauritania in its fight against corruption, trafficking in person, and slavery. We applaud these efforts and look forward to seeing continued progress made to ensure all Mauritanians are able to have a voice in the political process.
- On the economic front – Mauritania has tremendous potential, but challenges remain for U.S. and foreign investors. President Ghazouani has an ambitious economic reform agenda that aims to eliminate opaque regulations, attract more foreign investment, and distribute wealth and opportunity more evenly within Mauritanian society – again, count on the United States as a partner in these efforts. U.S. companies can contribute to Mauritania’s development through investment opportunities in renewable energy, fishing, and agricultural sectors.
- In sum, there are many opportunities to work together to accomplish our shared priorities. The United States will continue to partner with Mauritania, the G5 Sahel, other West African governments, and African institutions to promote a stable and prosperous region. And, a note on the COVID-19: I realize the pandemic has had a significant impact on the everyday lives of Mauritanians and I commend President Ghazouani for the country’s handling of the situation. The United States remains a partner in the fight against COVID and in addition to donating 302,000 doses of Johnson and Johnson vaccines to Mauritania through the COVAX initiative, the United States has contributed funding to facilitate COVAX donations from other countries.
- During my visit, I look forward to engaging with Mauritanian officials, G5 Sahel experts, and others to expand our relations with the people and government of Mauritania.
- Thank you.
