The high-level dialogue between the Islamic Republic of Mauritania and the European Union took place on Thursday, February 12, 2026, under the leadership of H.E. Prime Minister Mokhtar Ould Diaye at the Prime Minister’s Office in Nouakchott.
Representing the European side were the Director for Africa at the European External Action Service (EEAS), the Director for Africa in the Directorate-General for International Partnerships, and resident ambassadors from the European Team in Mauritania—including representatives from Germany, Spain, France, Italy—alongside non-resident ambassadors from Romania and Denmark.
key discussions and shared priorities
The meeting aimed to reinforce and deepen mutual cooperation between Mauritania and the EU, addressing bilateral relations and regional issues such as security, migration, humanitarian conditions, economic growth, sustainable development, and the promotion of human rights and civil liberties. These regular political dialogues serve as a platform to assess cooperation progress and track socio-political and economic developments in both Mauritania and the broader European context.
mauritanian highlights: stability and reform
Mauritanian officials presented an overview of the country’s political stability, ahead of an upcoming national dialogue. Discussions also covered regional peace and security, particularly the humanitarian situation, including the hosting and care of refugees in Mauritania. The economic landscape was another focal point, with an emphasis on recent performance, ongoing challenges, and structural reforms designed to foster inclusive and sustainable growth.
On behalf of the European Team, Ms. Patricia Llombard-Cussac outlined the EU’s initiatives in Mauritania, including the implementation of the Global Gateway partnership. Key areas of focus included infrastructure development and energy sector expansion. The parties also explored human development priorities, such as strengthening healthcare and education systems, and promoting local economic growth. Additional sectors discussed included migration management, fisheries cooperation, and defense collaboration.
The talks, described as constructive and mutually beneficial, underscored the strong and cooperative relationship between Mauritania and the European Union. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to fostering ongoing dialogue to build a fruitful and strategic partnership.
mauritanian delegation: leadership in attendance
The Mauritanian delegation included:
- Minister of the Secretariat-General of the Government
- Interim Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Mauritanians Abroad; Minister of Justice
- Minister of the Interior, Promotion of Decentralization, and Local Development
- Minister of Finance
- Minister of Economic Affairs and Development
- Minister of Fisheries, Maritime Infrastructure, and Ports
- Minister of Education and Education System Reform
- Minister of Health
- Director of the Prime Minister’s Cabinet
These partnership dialogues are held regularly under the Samoa Agreement, which governs relations between the European Union and countries in Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific (ACP).