Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara and Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani held talks in Abidjan on Tuesday as the two West African countries seek to deepen bilateral cooperation and strengthen coordination on regional security. The discussions covered the political and socio-economic situation in both countries, trade and investment, peacebuilding and efforts to improve security along West Africa’s borders. Ouattara highlighted what he described as a broad convergence of views with his Mauritanian counterpart on regional and international issues, while stressing the importance of closer cooperation between the two countries.
Ghazouani described his visit as a reflection of the longstanding friendship and shared ties between Mauritania and Côte d’Ivoire. He said stronger bilateral cooperation could help both countries respond more effectively to common economic and security challenges. The talks come as West Africa faces a changing security landscape, with jihadist violence continuing to spread across parts of the Sahel and placing pressure on coastal countries, including Côte d’Ivoire.
Mauritania, which has maintained relative stability despite insecurity in neighboring Sahel states, has also played a role in regional diplomatic efforts. Côte d’Ivoire, meanwhile, has strengthened security measures along its northern borders and expanded cooperation with neighboring countries to prevent militant groups from extending their operations toward the Gulf of Guinea. Both presidents pledged to further develop their strategic partnership and coordinate efforts on issues affecting regional peace, stability and economic development.
