Mauritania occupies an important place in the future of Spain and Europe

1. Towards a new strategic orientation
2. A first manifestation of this common front
3. Key factors for success
4. Challenges to overcome
5. The key role of Spain

For the Canary Islands and, by extension, for Spain, the stability, inclusive and sustainable development of Mauritania, as well as its prosperity, social cohesion and security, are issues of vital importance.  

Geographical proximity and the multiplicity of common interests mean that the future of Mauritania has a direct influence on the region. It is therefore essential that the governments of the Canary Islands and Spain adopt more united, ambitious and concerted policies in their relationship with Mauritania.

The strengthening of this partnership responds to values deeply rooted in Canarian and Spanish societies: solidarity in times of crisis, the growing interconnection between our civil societies, our institutions and our economic actors. However, for this cooperation to be truly effective, a new approach based on common interest is essential, underpinned by broad and structured consultations involving all levels of government, parliaments, civil society, think tanks and the business sector. 

Towards a new strategic orientation

This new vision of cooperation should be structured around the following objectives: 

• Strengthen exchanges and joint action, fostering fluid and constructive dialogue. 
• Promote inclusive and sustainable development, with special attention to youth and women, through the participation of Canarian and Spanish institutions, companies and organisations. 
• Boost business investment, promoting sustainable projects in association with Mauritanian actors to create solid and lasting economic links. 
• Strengthen institutions, ensuring they are more solid, inclusive and efficient. 
• Modernise and strengthen security, in order to guarantee stability and well-being for both parties.

These strategic axes will allow for the expansion of political and social dialogue, the strengthening of cooperation for development, the promotion of bilateral trade and the attraction of Spanish investment to Mauritania. To this end, it is essential to create a common front that promotes triangular cooperation between governments, parliaments and companies. 

A first manifestation of this common front

A key step in this strategy must be the creation of a joint agency responsible for: 

• • Promoting trade and investment relations. 
• • Efficiently manage migratory flows. 
• • Promote economic and social development in both regions. 

This approach must take into account the profound changes that are taking place in the sub-region and which are redefining the traditional paradigms of bilateral relations. 

It is undeniable that a significant part of the future of the Canary Islands, Spain and, in a broader sense, Europe, is at stake in Africa, and Mauritania occupies a central place in this process. For this reason, we must now lay the foundations for a new global and inclusive partnership between the Canary Islands and Mauritania, and take the first steps to realise it without delay. 

Key factors for success

This strategic partnership can be based on several elements that represent key opportunities: 

• Mauritania's geopolitical position as a bridge between Africa and Europe. 
• The European Union's strategic interest in strengthening its relations with Mauritania. 
• The country's economic transformation, which is moving towards a more productive, diversified, digital and green energy-centred model. 
• The growing role of youth and women in the economy and politics. 
• Strengthening dialogue and democracy. 
• The opportunities offered by orderly and regular managed migration.

Challenges to overcome

Despite these opportunities, there are structural challenges that must be addressed with determination: 

• Difficulties in accessing external financing and high investment costs. 
• Deficits in energy infrastructure and connectivity, which limit development. 
• Shortage of skilled labour and lack of technical training. 
• Security challenges, linked to irregular migration flows and their consequences in terms of crime. 
• Weak governance and the need for greater institutional efficiency. 
• Impact of climate change and problems in environmental management.

The key role of Spain

Spain, and in particular the Canary Islands, can play a fundamental role in this process: 

1. As a priority partner in trade, investment, development cooperation, security and migration management. 
2. As a leader in strategic sectors such as transport and energy infrastructure, fishing and agriculture. 
3. As a key player in cultural and social cooperation, with development support instruments that can have a significant impact. 

The rapprochement between Spain and Mauritania, with the Canary Islands as a natural bridge, must be based on the principles of partnership, mutual respect and shared benefit, taking into account the aspirations and needs of both parties. 

Mohamed Abdellahi El Ghailany, MP for Nouadhibou-Mauritania and president of the Mauritanian-Spanish Parliamentary Friendship Group.