Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez arrived in Nouakchott
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez arrived in Nouakchott today for an official eight-hour visit, accompanied by seven of his ministers. The visit marks the first high-level summit of its kind between Madrid and Nouakchott.
Why is this visit significant?
Priority to Migration:
Sánchez emphasized the importance of establishing a model of “safe and regular” migration, announcing the launch of a pilot circular migration program involving 50 seasonal workers from Mauritania to work in Spain.
Strategic Agreements Signed:
A memorandum of understanding to enhance circular migration.
Agreements on cybersecurity, infrastructure, and improvements to the Mauritanian social security system.
An agreement to appoint an economic adviser to the Spanish embassy in Nouakchott starting this September to boost trade cooperation.
Stimulating Investment:
Sánchez committed to structural support worth €200 million, which includes projects in:
Transformational energy
Infrastructure
Sustainable tourism
The blue (marine) economy
Broader Objectives of the Visit
1. Strengthening Bilateral Ties:
This summit builds on previous agreements—most recently in February 2024, in the presence of EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen—to foster regular, high-level cooperation.
2. Highlighting Mauritania’s Geostrategic Role:
As a key transit point toward the Canary Islands, Mauritania plays a crucial role in ensuring regional stability, in coordination with the EU, Morocco, and African countries.
3. Supporting Sustainable Development:
The visit aims to stimulate Mauritania’s economic growth to reduce migration drivers through joint, sustainable investment projects.
4. Expanding Cultural Horizons:
Announcement of plans to expand the teaching of the Spanish language in Mauritania through the Cervantes Institute in Nouakchott.
Hot Issues
Reactions to Racially Motivated Violence:
The visit follows recent incidents of racial violence in Torre-Pacheco, Spain, highlighting the need for stronger international cooperation against intolerance and racism.
Balancing Security and Development:
While addressing irregular migration, Sánchez emphasized that legally managed migration adds value to the Spanish economy, stating:
> “Spain’s economic progress is due in large part to migrants.”
Conclusion:
Sánchez’s visit marks a turning point in Spain’s policy in West Africa, focusing on:
Organizing migration in a humane and just manner
Boosting investment and development in Mauritania
Building sustainable security, economic, and cultural partnerships
