Ladies and Gentlemen, distinguished guests, and dear friends, welcome. Thank you all for being here.

Mr. President, my dear brother,

It is an honor for France to welcome you to Paris for this state visit. Your presence sends a powerful signal—one 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, not only for its strategic location bridging the Arab world and Africa but also for its unwavering commitment to stability, dialogue, and sovereignty. In a Sahel region facing deep instability, Mauritania demonstrates that a path of strategic independence and responsibility is not only possible but essential.

In these challenging times, marked by terrorism, trafficking, and external pressures seeking to destabilize nations, we have chosen a common path—one rooted in partnership, mutual respect, and collective action to support regional efforts. Together, we are working to prevent further destabilization and uphold the sovereignty of states.

In a world where power dynamics are resurging and multilateralism is under threat, Mauritania and France champion a clear vision: an international order built on rules, cooperation, and balanced relations. Mauritania holds a vital place in this vision, both in Africa, the Arab world, Europe, and global forums—particularly within the Francophonie.

Our nations share strong stances on pressing global challenges: climate change, ocean preservation, food security, and the need to reshape global economic balances to give Africa its rightful place. This strategic relationship must deliver concrete results, which is why we are reinforcing our economic partnership.

Today, Mauritania is a land of opportunity. French businesses are already investing, creating jobs, and driving growth. Meridiam, for instance, has invested €155 million in Nouakchott’s container terminal, employing nearly 350 Mauritanians. Close to 40 French companies already provide over 2,000 jobs in Mauritania. But we aim to go further, faster, and with greater structure—this state visit embodies that ambition.

From infrastructure and energy to water, agriculture, and urban development, we share a responsibility: fostering job-creating economies that meet the aspirations of young people. I am pleased to highlight a project by the French company Razel-Bec, supported by a concessional loan from the French Treasury, which will boost Nouakchott’s water production capacity by 50%. Similarly, a €40 million investment to hybridize ten thermal power plants will enhance the country’s energy resilience.

At a time when international disengagement and isolationism are rising, France remains committed to solidarity-driven investments. While some partners have scaled back, we have doubled our project portfolio over the past two years, particularly through the French Development Agency (AFD). This commitment is evident in our support for Mauritania’s efforts to host over 300,000 refugees in its eastern regions. I deeply appreciate the burden this places on your nation and commend your leadership.

The message is clear: Mauritania is not alone. France will continue to stand by its side—through businesses, financing, and development tools—just as you will open a business forum in the coming days.

Mr. President, your visit to Brest to address blue economy and maritime security, alongside our upcoming participation in the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, reflects a broader ambition: to redefine the relationship between our two nations and between France and Africa as a whole. A relationship rooted in investment, innovation, youth, and civil society—one that embraces its political, economic, and strategic dimensions.

We face a historical responsibility: not to passively witness global shifts but to shape them. Our two countries are determined to do so together. Over the years, we have grown to know and trust each other. I have witnessed your resolve and courage in the most difficult moments, and I am proud to welcome you today—alongside Madame la Première Dame, your ministers, and your delegation—for this state visit.

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