US seeks broader partnership with Mauritania as ties mark 65 years

NOUAKCHOTT – The United States is seeking to expand its partnership with Mauritania in ways that advance security, stability and economic development in both countries, Washington's top diplomat in Nouakchott said, highlighting the steady growth of bilateral relations as the two nations mark 65 years of diplomatic ties.

Speaking at a reception hosted by the US Embassy in Nouakchott on Wednesday evening to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence, Charge d’Affaires Corina R. Sanders said Washington looked forward to strengthening cooperation with Mauritania across a broad range of sectors of mutual interest.

The event, held as part of global celebrations leading up to the United States' Independence Day on July 4, brought together senior Mauritanian government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders and representatives of civil society.

Sanders described the relationship between Nouakchott and Washington as one that continues to develop and diversify, underpinned by a shared commitment to prosperity, security and sustainable development.

“Our partnership continues to grow, and we aspire to broaden cooperation in ways that serve the interests of both countries and contribute to stability and development,” she said.

The American diplomat noted that this year's celebrations coincide with the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States and Mauritania, describing the milestone as evidence of the enduring ties between the two nations and the progress achieved through decades of cooperation.

The strong representation from the Mauritanian government underscored the importance both sides attach to the relationship. Those attending included Justice Minister Mohamad Ould Soueydatt, who is currently acting as foreign minister, Defence Minister Hanana Ould Sidi, Energy and Petroleum Minister Mohamed Ould Khaled and presidential adviser Harouna Traoré.

The embassy said the presence of leading figures from the Mauritanian business community also reflected growing economic links and a shared interest in expanding investment, trade and commercial opportunities.

The celebration comes amid efforts by both countries to deepen cooperation in areas ranging from regional security and economic development to energy, governance and social resilience.

Earlier this year, Mauritania's Minister of Economy and Development Abdellahi Ould Cheikh Sidiya outlined the country's strategy for promoting peace and social cohesion during the 2025-2030 period while attending the 2026 Fragility Forum hosted by the World Bank in Washington.

The minister said Mauritania's national strategy is based on a comprehensive approach to preventing fragility and strengthening stability by combining development and social policies with security considerations.

He highlighted a number of social and economic programmes designed to support vulnerable communities and strengthen social protection networks across the country, including initiatives led by the General Delegation for National Solidarity and the Fight against Exclusion, known as "Taazour," as well as the "Takaful" programme.

According to Mauritanian officials, these policies reflect a broader state effort to reinforce national solidarity, reduce social disparities and strengthen the foundations of long-term stability.

Observers say Mauritania has increasingly positioned itself as a key partner for Western countries seeking greater stability in the Sahel region, where security challenges, economic pressures and humanitarian concerns continue to shape regional dynamics.

Against that backdrop, the United States has steadily expanded engagement with Nouakchott, viewing the country as an important partner in efforts to promote regional security, economic resilience and sustainable development.

The anniversary celebration therefore served not only as a commemoration of a landmark chapter in American history, but also as a reaffirmation of a growing bilateral partnership that both countries appear keen to strengthen in the years ahead.