NOUAKCHOTT — Somalia and Mauritania have signed a series of memorandums of understanding (MoUs) aimed at deepening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation across key sectors, including security, energy, fisheries, and education.
The agreements were signed during an official meeting in the Mauritanian capital, Nouakchott, between Somalia’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ali Mohamed Omar (Ali Balad), and Mauritania’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Mauritanians Abroad, Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug.
Held at the headquarters of the Mauritanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the meeting focused on strengthening diplomatic relations and identifying new opportunities for collaboration between the two nations. The discussions reflected a shared commitment to enhancing regional stability, promoting economic development, and expanding educational partnerships.
According to officials, the agreements cover cooperation in security and counter-terrorism efforts, coordination in the fisheries and petroleum sectors, and initiatives aimed at improving collaboration in education, training, and human resource development. The accords are expected to provide a framework for increased information sharing, technical cooperation, and institutional exchanges between the two countries.
Security cooperation featured prominently in the discussions, with both sides recognizing the importance of collective efforts to combat terrorism, violent extremism, and transnational security threats affecting the wider region. The two governments also explored ways to strengthen coordination on regional and international issues of mutual concern.
The meeting was attended by Somalia’s Ambassador to Algeria and non-resident Ambassador to Mauritania, Youssef Ahmed Hassan (Youssef Jigo), along with senior officials from both foreign ministries. Participants emphasized the importance of maintaining regular diplomatic engagement and building stronger political and economic links between Mogadishu and Nouakchott.
The agreements also seek to promote collaboration in the fisheries and energy sectors, areas regarded as important drivers of economic growth in both countries. Through technical exchanges and investment cooperation, Somalia and Mauritania aim to maximize the benefits of their natural resources while encouraging sustainable development.
In the education sector, the two governments agreed to enhance cooperation through academic exchanges, training opportunities, and partnerships between educational institutions, with the goal of building skills and supporting the development of future professionals.
The visit by the Somali foreign affairs minister forms part of ongoing efforts by both countries to broaden bilateral engagement and open new avenues of cooperation. Officials from Somalia and Mauritania expressed confidence that the newly signed agreements will contribute to stronger diplomatic relations and create opportunities for mutually beneficial collaboration in the years ahead.
