Algeria–Mauritania: Firm Will to Elevate Ties to Strategic Level, Says Attaf
ALGIERS, April 7, 2026 – Algeria’s Minister of State and Minister of Foreign Affairs, National Community Abroad and African Affairs, Ahmed Attaf, stated on Monday in Algiers that the significant achievements made in the Algeria–Mauritania partnership over the past three years are a source of satisfaction and optimism, stressing that the shared political will of both countries’ leaders reflects a firm commitment to elevating bilateral relations to a strategic level.
Speaking at the Algeria–Mauritania follow-up committee meeting ahead of the 20th session of the Joint High Commission, Attaf said the progress achieved serves not only as encouragement but also as motivation to expand cooperation, integration, and joint development.
He emphasized that the ambitions of both countries go beyond current levels, highlighting the strong political will of Presidents Abdelmadjid Tebboune and Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani to strengthen bilateral ties despite regional and international challenges.
Attaf noted that determination and political commitment have driven the positive momentum in relations across political, security, economic, and social fields.
On the political and security front, he highlighted ongoing coordination and consultation, including five presidential visits exchanged over the past three years, as well as advanced military and security cooperation.
Economically, he pointed to major progress, including the Tindouf–Zouerate road project, whose first section has reached about 40% completion, and the near completion of a free trade zone expected to be inaugurated this summer. Two border crossings have also been opened under joint supervision.
Trade between the two countries increased by 48% over the past year, consolidating Algeria’s position as Mauritania’s leading trade partner in Africa since 2023.
Attaf also stressed the importance of the human dimension of relations, calling for stronger cooperation in education, research, vocational training, health, culture, youth, tourism, and religious affairs, as well as the development of border regions.
He concluded that all indicators point to a “bright and promising future” for Algeria–Mauritania relations, benefiting not only both countries but also the wider region and the African continent.
