Ladies and Gentlemen, esteemed guests, and friends, please be seated. Thank you all for being here.

Mr. President, my dear friend,

It is an honor for France to host you in Paris for this State visit. Your presence here sends a powerful signal—a signal of friendship, trust, and clarity in a rapidly changing world. This visit, the first of its kind in over three decades, comes at a time when our shared responsibilities have never been greater.

Mauritania stands as a key partner for France—strategically positioned at the crossroads of the Arab world and Africa. Your leadership embodies stability, dialogue, and sovereignty, while your nation plays a pivotal role in a Sahel region grappling with profound instability.

In this context, Mauritania demonstrates that a path of strategic independence and responsibility is not only possible but essential. Against the backdrop of crises, terrorism, trafficking, and external influences seeking to weaken states, we have chosen a shared path: partnership, respect for sovereignty, and collective action to support regional efforts in preventing further destabilization.

In a world where power dynamics are resurging and multilateralism is under threat, Mauritania and France champion a clear vision—one rooted in rules, cooperation, mutual respect, and balance. Mauritania holds a vital place in this vision, both in Africa, the Arab world, Europe, and international forums, particularly within the Francophonie.

We align closely on critical global challenges: climate action, ocean preservation, food security, and the need to restructure global economic balances to give Africa its rightful place. This strategic relationship must translate into tangible outcomes, which is why we are reinforcing our economic partnership.

Today, Mauritania is a land of opportunity. French businesses are already making their mark, creating jobs and investing in your nation. Meridiam’s $155 million investment in the Nouakchott container terminal and the employment of nearly 350 Mauritanians exemplify this commitment. Nearly 40 French companies already employ over 2,000 Mauritanians, but we aim to go further, faster, and with greater structure. This State visit embodies that ambition.

In infrastructure, energy, water, agriculture, and sustainable urban development, we share a common responsibility: fostering a job-creating economy that meets the aspirations of your youth. I am pleased to highlight a project by the French company Razel-Bec, supported by a concessional loan from the French Treasury, which will increase Nouakchott’s water production capacity by 50%. Additionally, a €40 million investment to hybridize ten thermal power plants will contribute to a more sustainable and resilient electricity system.

Amidst a climate of international disengagement and self-interest, France remains committed to solidarity-driven investments. While some historic partners have scaled back cooperation, we have doubled our project portfolio over the past two years, notably through the French Development Agency (AFD). This commitment is particularly evident in our support for Mauritania’s remarkable efforts to host over 300,000 refugees in its eastern regions. I deeply appreciate the burden this places on your nation and commend your sense of responsibility.

The message is clear: Mauritania is not alone in facing global and regional imbalances. France will continue to stand by you through its businesses, financing, and development tools. This spirit also guides the upcoming business forum you will inaugurate in the coming days.

Finally, Mr. President, your visit to Brest to address blue economy and maritime security, and our upcoming meeting in Nairobi for the Africa Forward Summit, reflect a broader ambition: to fundamentally reshape the relationship between our two nations and between France and Africa. A relationship built on investment, innovation, youth, and civil society—one that boldly embraces its political, economic, and strategic dimensions.

We have a historic responsibility: not to merely endure global realignments but to shape them. Our two countries are determined to do this together. Over the years, we have come to know each other well. I have witnessed your unwavering determination and courage in the face of adversity, and I am proud to welcome you today for this State visit, alongside the First Lady, your ministers, and your delegation, my dear friend and Mr. President.

Mr. President, thank you for your trust, your friendship toward France, and for the new chapter we are writing together. Thank you very much.