Good Afternoon. I am honored to be here on my first visit to Mauritania. I want to express my thanks to President Ghazouani for the warm reception and hospitality that my team and I received. My visit to Mauritania reinforces President Biden’s dedication to strengthening our ties with African partners.
The United States applauds Mauritania’s long-standing role in countering terrorists and preventing violent extremism in the Sahel. We value Mauritania’s leadership in regional security, particularly as the host of the G5 Sahel Executive Secretariat and the G5 Sahel Defense College.
For decades, our security programs have provided training for Mauritanian military units here and have aided the professional development of Mauritanian military officers through programs at American military schools, reinforcing our shared values of civilian governance.
These efforts benefit all Mauritanians by enhancing national security, providing for a stronger defense, safer streets, and open trade to strengthen the foundation for Mauritania’s future.
I am profoundly grateful to the warm-hearted people of Mauritania and his Excellency, President Ghazouani, for the extraordinary hospitality extended to me during my time here.
