Morocco and Mauritania are experiencing a significant upswing in diplomatic relations, with both nations focusing on enhanced cooperation in sectors like electricity network interconnection, high-speed internet, road infrastructure, and trade. Discussions are ongoing for a joint initiative that aims to connect their electricity grids, internet, and telephone networks, driven by the Moroccan Telecom Group. Additionally, plans are in place to integrate land ports and road networks to improve economic and commercial ties.
A pivotal project underway is the electricity interconnection between the two nations, which is expected to be formalized with a memorandum of understanding to be signed by the energy ministers by the end of the week. Morocco is also advancing a new trade route through a 53-kilometer road section linking Smara to the Mauritanian border, with construction set to be completed soon.
These developments follow a visit by Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh Ghazouani to Rabat, where discussions with King Mohammed VI spurred a series of diplomatic meetings. In recent months, high-level talks have taken place between officials from both countries, including discussions on various bilateral matters during the 79th UN General Assembly session.
In a significant diplomatic shift, Mauritania has distanced itself from its previous support for the Polisario Front, with actions such as requesting the exclusion of Polisario leader Brahim Ghali from a major conference. Mauritania also opted out of joining an Algerian-led initiative aimed at excluding Morocco from the Arab Maghreb.
These moves signal a strengthening of ties between Morocco and Mauritania, with both nations poised to benefit from closer cooperation and regional integration.
