AGP Executive Report

Digital Education Push: MBRGI and The Digital School launched a digital learning initiative targeting 500,000+ people across Mauritania and five other African countries, with plans to equip learning spaces, train teachers, and prepare youth for jobs. Energy Deal in the Spotlight: Acwa signed a PPP and power purchase agreement for the 230 MW N’Diago gas-fired plant in Mauritania, positioning it as the country’s first large-scale gas IPP and linking domestic gas to the national grid. Digital Sovereignty Move: Mauritania unveiled its first national cloud platform to host government data and services locally, aiming to boost cybersecurity and keep public services running securely. Energy Cooperation with Russia: Russia and Mauritania agreed to step up work on energy projects, including oil and gas cooperation, power plant modernization, renewables, and cybersecurity for critical infrastructure. Regional Diplomacy: Mauritania’s foreign minister held talks with Saudi counterparts on regional developments, while Libya-Mauritania officials discussed a technical committee to review and activate bilateral agreements. Climate Governance for Nouakchott: CHAMP created a Subnational Advisory Council giving cities and regions a formal voice in climate diplomacy, with Nouakchott Region represented by its president, Fatimetou Abdel Malick. Border Security Context: A U.S. delegation visited El Guerguerat for talks with Moroccan officials on border security, counter-narcotics, and human trafficking—an issue closely tied to Mauritania-Morocco regional dynamics.

Digital Sovereignty: Mauritania launched its first national cloud platform to host government data and digital services locally, aiming to boost cybersecurity, protect sensitive national information, and keep public services running securely. Energy Diplomacy: Russia and Mauritania agreed to step up cooperation on oil, gas, power generation (thermal, hydro, wind), and cybersecurity for critical infrastructure. Regional Security & Borders: Saudi, Egyptian and Qatari foreign ministers condemned threats to maritime navigation and discussed de-escalation; separately, a U.S. delegation visited El Guerguerat to discuss border security, counter-narcotics and human trafficking—an issue tied to the Western Sahara dispute. Western Sahara Politics: The UN-backed push for a new round of talks under UNSC Resolution 2797 continues, with U.S. UN envoy Mike Waltz meeting the Sahrawi Movement for Peace and Polisario officials reiterating that no state can take away Sahrawi rights. Governance & Climate: CHAMP created a Subnational Advisory Council, bringing mayors and regional leaders into climate decision-making; Mauritania’s Nouakchott region is represented. Justice & Rights: Mauritania’s RSF welcomed a bill on access to and use of public information, calling for stronger safeguards.

Digital Sovereignty: Mauritania launched its first national cloud platform to host government data and digital services locally, aiming to boost cybersecurity, protect sensitive national information, and keep public services running securely. Regional Diplomacy: Mauritania’s foreign minister held talks with Saudi Arabia’s top diplomat by phone, reviewing regional developments and mutual issues. Energy Cooperation: Russia and Mauritania agreed to step up work on energy projects, including oil and gas, power plant modernization, renewables, and cybersecurity for critical infrastructure. Western Sahara Politics: Frente POLISARIO’s UN representative said no state can “trade” Sahrawi rights or decide their destiny, referencing UN-linked talks involving Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania, and the Polisario. Climate Governance: Mauritania’s Nouakchott region president joined a new CHAMP Subnational Advisory Council, giving cities and regions a formal voice in climate diplomacy. Justice & Rights: A Mauritania-related debate resurfaced as EU plans for “return hubs” outside the bloc reportedly include Mauritania among possible destinations.

Digital Sovereignty: Mauritania launched its first national cloud platform to host government data and digital services locally, aiming to boost cybersecurity, protect sensitive national information, and keep public services running through a secure, domestically managed system. Regional Diplomacy: Mauritania’s foreign minister, Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug, held phone talks with Saudi FM Prince Faisal bin Farhan on regional developments, while separate calls with Oman’s FM Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi also focused on preserving peace and stability. Energy Cooperation: Russia and Mauritania agreed to step up work on energy projects, including oil and gas, power plant modernization, renewables like wind, and cybersecurity for critical infrastructure. Governance & Strategy: The Global Water Organization (GWO) reviewed its governance framework and four-year strategy in Jeddah, with Mauritania among founding members. Justice & Information Rights: RSF welcomed Mauritania’s bill on access to and use of public information, calling it a fulfillment of a presidential commitment and urging stronger safeguards. Security Cooperation: U.S. Africa Command showcased trilateral air training with Mauritania in Atar, highlighting interoperability and partner readiness. Climate Diplomacy: CHAMP for Climate Action created a Subnational Advisory Council, with Mauritania’s Nouakchott region represented.

Libya–Mauritania Talks: Mauritania’s ambassador to Libya, Sidi Yahya Lemrabott, met Acting Libyan Foreign Minister Taher Al-Baour to set up a technical committee reviewing bilateral agreements and agreeing dates for the next Joint Higher Committee session, as both sides pushed to activate cooperation across fields. Regional Diplomacy: Saudi Arabia’s FM Prince Faisal bin Farhan spoke by phone with Mauritania’s Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug to review regional developments, while Saudi, Egyptian and Qatari ministers also condemned threats to maritime navigation and urged de-escalation. Western Sahara/Border Security: A U.S. mission delegation made its first publicly announced visit to Morocco’s El Guerguerat crossing to discuss border security, counter-narcotics and human trafficking—an area repeatedly flagged in the Western Sahara dispute. Energy & Infrastructure: The AfDB signed project implementation contracts tied to the 225 kV Mauritania–Mali power interconnection under the Desert to Power and Mission 300 electrification push. Local Climate Voice: CHAMP launched a Subnational Advisory Council in London, bringing Nouakchott Region President Fatimetou Abdel Malick into formal climate decision-making. Public Information Law: RSF welcomed Mauritania’s bill on access to and use of public information, calling for stronger safeguards. Security Cooperation: U.S. Africa Command showcased trilateral air training with Mauritania near Atar, highlighting interoperability and deterrence.

Mauritania Diplomacy: Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister held a phone call with Mauritania’s Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug to review regional developments, underscoring Nouakchott’s continued role in Gulf-linked regional consultations. Regional Security: In separate talks, Saudi, Egyptian and Qatari officials condemned threats to maritime navigation and Iran’s attacks, while Mauritania’s FM also discussed mutual issues with Saudi counterparts. Human Rights & Media Law: RSF welcomed Mauritania’s bill on access to and use of public information, but urged stronger safeguards and procedural protections during the parliamentary review. Energy & Infrastructure: The AfDB signed key project implementation contracts tied to the 225 kV Mauritania–Mali power interconnection, advancing Desert to Power and Mission 300 electrification goals. Climate Governance: Mauritania’s Nouakchott Region president joined a new CHAMP Subnational Advisory Council, giving cities and regions a formal voice in climate diplomacy. Culture: Mauritania’s Noura Mint Seymali is set to headline Ireland’s Earagail Arts Festival in July, spotlighting Mauritanian music on an international stage. International Context: A UN-backed electrification push is connecting tens of millions across Africa, with Mauritania’s wider region benefiting from the same momentum.

Central Bank & Banking Oversight: Morocco’s central bank governor said the banking system is modernising via digitalisation and stronger intermediation for Moroccans abroad, including talks with European countries over a new EU directive affecting Moroccan banks operating in Europe. Mauritania–Saudi Diplomacy: Saudi FM Prince Faisal bin Farhan spoke by phone with Mauritania’s foreign minister, Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug, reviewing regional developments and issues of mutual interest. Regional Security & Maritime Tensions: Saudi, Egypt and Qatar condemned threats to maritime navigation after Iranian attacks on Bahrain, while Prince Faisal also received a call from Ould Merzoug to discuss latest developments. Climate Governance with Mauritania at the Table: CHAMP launched a Subnational Advisory Council in London, bringing mayors and regional leaders into climate decision-making; Nouakchott Region president Fatimetou Abdel Malick is among the African representatives. Energy Connectivity for Mauritania: AfDB signed project implementation contracts tied to the 225 kV Mauritania–Mali power interconnection, part of the Desert to Power and Mission 300 electrification push. Justice Cooperation: Russia and Mauritania signed a memorandum of understanding in the justice sector to expand cooperation against transnational crime, including drugs, weapons and cybercrime. Public Information Rights: RSF welcomed Mauritania’s bill on access to and use of public information, urging stronger safeguards as it moves through parliamentary review. U.S.–Mauritania Security Signalling: A U.S. Africa Command mission highlighted partner training and interoperability with Mauritania’s forces, including bomber operations over Atar.

EU Migration Policy: Ireland’s justice minister said Dublin wants to opt into the EU’s new “return hubs” rules, with destinations reportedly including Mauritania—sparking renewed human-rights criticism over outsourcing asylum and protections. Regional Diplomacy: Saudi, Egypt and Qatar condemned Iranian attacks and threats to maritime navigation, while Saudi’s FM also spoke by phone with Mauritania’s foreign minister on regional developments. Sahara & Border Security: A U.S. mission delegation visited Morocco’s El Guerguerat crossing to discuss border security, counter-narcotics and trafficking—an area tied to Western Sahara tensions and trade with Mauritania. Climate Governance: CHAMP launched a Subnational Advisory Council in London, giving cities and regions a formal voice; Nouakchott Region’s president is among Africa’s representatives. Justice & Media Rights (Mauritania): RSF welcomed Mauritania’s public information access bill but urged stronger safeguards, including tighter limits on refusals and better ombudsman independence. Legal Cooperation: Russia and Mauritania signed a justice-sector memorandum to expand cooperation against transnational crime, including cybercrime and illegal trafficking. Development Finance: Mauritania and the OPEC Fund signed two agreements worth $195m for a 2026–2029 partnership framework and climate-resilient infrastructure and food security support.

UN Politics: The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming 2027–2036 as the International Decade of Strengthening Peace for Future Generations, with Mauritania among the sponsors. Sahara Diplomacy: A new assessment says UN Security Council Resolution 2797 shifted the Western Sahara autonomy plan’s framing, with Algeria formally designated as a stakeholder in the process. Border Security & Trade: The U.S. made its first publicly announced visit to Morocco’s El Guerguerat crossing to discuss border security, counter-narcotics and human trafficking—an area tied to Western Sahara tensions and West African trade. Regional Security Talks: Saudi, Egyptian and Qatari foreign ministers condemned Iranian attacks and maritime navigation threats, while Saudi’s FM also spoke with Mauritania’s FM Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug. Mauritania–Oman Links: Oman’s FM Sayyid Badr held calls with Mauritania’s FM, reviewing bilateral ties and regional stability efforts. Justice Cooperation: Russia and Mauritania signed a memorandum of understanding on justice and law-enforcement cooperation, targeting transnational crime. Development Finance: Mauritania signed two OPEC Fund agreements worth $195m, including a 2026–2029 country partnership framework up to $180m. Media Rights: RSF welcomed Mauritania’s bill on access to and use of public information, urging stronger safeguards during parliamentary review. Climate Governance: CHAMP created a Subnational Advisory Council in London, bringing Nouakchott Region’s president into climate decision-making. Energy Connectivity: AfDB signed contracts advancing the 225 kV Mauritania–Mali power interconnection under the Desert to Power initiative. Military Interoperability: U.S. Africa Command showcased joint training with Mauritanian forces near Atar, highlighting deterrence and interoperability.

Regional Diplomacy: Saudi, Egypt and Qatar condemned Iranian attacks on Bahrain and warned against threats to maritime navigation, urging de-escalation and a return to negotiations; Saudi FM Prince Faisal also spoke with Mauritania’s foreign minister Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug. Border Security: The US made its first publicly announced visit to Morocco’s El Guerguerat crossing, discussing border security, counter-narcotics and human trafficking—an area repeatedly flagged for instability tied to the Western Sahara dispute. Foreign Policy Consultations: Oman’s foreign minister Sayyid Badr held calls with Egypt, Mauritania and Saudi Arabia focused on containing regional tensions and safeguarding Hormuz and other vital waterways. Energy & Infrastructure: The AfDB moved forward on the 225 kV Mauritania–Mali power interconnection under the Desert to Power initiative, signing project implementation contracts aimed at boosting grid reliability and energy trade. Justice Cooperation: Russia and Mauritania signed a justice-sector memorandum of understanding to expand cooperation against transnational crime, including terrorism, cybercrime and trafficking. Development Finance: Mauritania and the OPEC Fund signed two financing agreements totaling $195 million for climate-resilient infrastructure, food security and value-chain support. Information Rights: RSF welcomed Mauritania’s bill on access to and use of public information, urging stronger safeguards during the parliamentary review. Climate & Oceans: At Kenya’s Our Ocean Conference, $6.4bn in commitments backed marine protection and fisheries monitoring, while Mauritania-linked regional climate cooperation continued under CHAMP’s multilevel governance push.

AfDB & Energy Infrastructure: The African Development Bank moved ahead on the 225 kV Mauritania–Mali power interconnection, signing project implementation contracts tied to the Desert to Power push—aimed at expanding electricity access and grid reliability across the Sahel. Diplomacy in the Gulf: Oman’s foreign minister Sayyid Badr held calls with Egypt, Mauritania and Saudi Arabia, focusing on containing regional tensions and safeguarding maritime routes through the Strait of Hormuz. Mauritania–Oman Bilateral Ties: In a separate call, Mauritania’s foreign minister Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug thanked Oman for its balanced regional role and pledged to deepen cooperation. Security Cooperation: A U.S. Africa Command mission in Atar, Mauritania, highlighted partner training and interoperability with Mauritanian and Czech forces, underscoring regional deterrence. Justice Cooperation: Russia and Mauritania signed a memorandum of understanding to expand professional dialogue between justice and law-enforcement bodies on cross-border threats. Information Rights: RSF welcomed Mauritania’s bill on access to and use of public information, urging stronger safeguards as parliament reviews it. Regional Politics & Migration: EU states are scouting “return hub” locations, with Mauritania listed among possible sites—raising fresh rights concerns. UN Peace Agenda: The UN General Assembly proclaimed 2027–2036 as an International Decade for strengthening peace for future generations, with Mauritania among the sponsors.

Press Freedom & Access to Information: RSF urges Mauritania to strengthen a new bill on journalists’ right to access and use public information, pushing for tighter limits on refusals, shorter “silence” periods, and a more independent ombudsman. Justice Cooperation: Mauritania and Russia sign a memorandum of understanding in the justice sector, focusing on countering transnational crime including drugs, weapons, cybercrime, and money laundering. Energy/Development Finance: Mauritania signs two OPEC Fund agreements totaling $195mn, including a 2026–2029 country partnership framework for climate-resilient infrastructure and food security. Diplomacy & Security Ties: Turkey’s Erdoğan and Mauritania’s El Ghazouani discuss boosting cooperation in trade, agriculture, fisheries, security, and the defence industry. Regional Security Posture: U.S. Africa Command highlights trilateral air training with Mauritania at Atar, underscoring interoperability and partner readiness. International Peace Agenda: The UN General Assembly backs Mauritania among sponsors for proclaiming 2027–2036 as the International Decade of Strengthening Peace for Future Generations. Migration/Returns Policy Watch: An EU push for “return hubs” lists Mauritania among potential destinations, raising rights concerns over detention and onward deportations.

Right to Information in Mauritania: RSF welcomed a bill on access to and use of public information, urging stronger procedural safeguards as Mauritania prepares for a parliamentary review, including tighter limits on refusals and a more independent ombudsman. Justice Cooperation: Mauritania and Russia signed a memorandum of understanding in the justice sector, focusing on cooperation against transnational crime such as terrorism, cybercrime, trafficking, and money laundering. Bilateral Diplomacy: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani discussed boosting ties in trade, agriculture, fisheries, security, and the defence industry. Development Finance: Mauritania and the OPEC Fund signed two financing agreements totaling $195 million, including a 2026–2029 country partnership framework for climate-resilient infrastructure and food security. Regional Politics: Somalia’s foreign minister attended Arab League ministerial meetings in Jordan and held talks with counterparts including Mauritania. Security Posture: U.S. Africa Command showcased airpower and interoperability with Mauritanian forces during a trilateral training event near Atar.

Right to Information: RSF urged Mauritania to strengthen a bill on access to and use of public information, pushing for tighter limits on refusals, faster appeals, and stronger ombudsman independence. Justice Cooperation: Russia and Mauritania signed a justice-sector memorandum on countering transnational crime, including terrorism, cybercrime, and trafficking. Development Finance: Mauritania and the OPEC Fund agreed two financing deals totaling $195mn, including a 2026–2029 country partnership framework for climate-resilient infrastructure and food security. Regional Diplomacy: President Erdoğan and Mauritania’s president discussed boosting ties in trade, agriculture, fisheries, security, and defense. Migration & Rights: A Safe Passage summit in Abuja called for better SRHR services for migrants and refugees, naming Mauritania among participating countries. EU Migration Policy: EU states are scouting “return hubs,” with Mauritania listed among possible sites. International Spotlight: Argentina confirmed two activists detained in Libya were expelled and are safe in Istanbul, after diplomatic efforts involving UNSMIL and the Red Cross. Climate Governance: CHAMP launched a Subnational Advisory Council to bring cities and regions into climate decision-making.

Development Finance: Mauritania and the OPEC Fund signed two financing agreements totaling $195mn, including a 2026–2029 country partnership framework of up to $180mn aimed at climate-resilient infrastructure, food security and other development priorities. Diplomacy: President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani spoke by phone with Türkiye’s Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, with both sides stressing new momentum in trade, agriculture, fisheries, security and defense industry cooperation. Regional Governance & Climate: The CHAMP coalition launched a Subnational Advisory Council in London, formally bringing mayors, governors and regional leaders into climate decision-making. Migration & Rights: A lawsuit in the US challenges Philadelphia ICE’s policy shift that led to re-arrests during routine immigrant check-ins, after a federal judge ordered releases. Humanitarian/Libya: The Global Sumud Flotilla says ten activists detained in eastern Libya are being released, with several already reported in Tunisia as diplomatic efforts continue. EU Migration Policy: EU states are reportedly scouting countries such as Mauritania for “return hubs” to hold rejected asylum seekers pending deportation. SRHR Access: A summit in Abuja called for stronger, rights-based sexual and reproductive health services for migrants and refugees, including in Mauritania.

Bilateral Diplomacy: President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani spoke by phone with Türkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, with both sides stressing fresh momentum on trade, agriculture, fisheries, security and the defense industry, and continued coordination on international platforms. Regional Governance & Climate: The CHAMP climate coalition announced a new Subnational Advisory Council to formally bring cities, states and regions into decision-making, aiming to speed implementation of Paris-aligned climate action. Migration Policy Pressure: EU member states are scouting countries for “return hubs” for rejected asylum seekers, with Mauritania listed among the options as talks move after the Return Regulation’s adoption. Oman–Mauritania Royal Diplomacy: Sultan Haitham of Oman sent a written message to President El Ghazouani, delivered in Nouakchott by the Sultanate’s mission head, reviewing bilateral ties and areas for cooperation. Security & Borders Training: West African customs administrations completed a GEOINT master-trainer cycle to strengthen geospatial tools for monitoring cross-border activity, including in Mauritania’s region. Humanitarian Aid Case: The Global Sumud Land Caravan says detained activists are being released from eastern Libya, with some already reported in Tunisia as diplomatic efforts continue.