Source: NATO
From 1 to 3 May 2024, the Chair of the NATO Military Committee, Admiral Rob Bauer, visited long-standing NATO Partner Mauritania. Here he was received by the President of Mauritania, His Excellency Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, Minister of Defence Hanena Ould Sidi, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohamed Yahya Saaid, Deputy Chief of Defence Brigadier General Vall Rayess and Chief of the Air Force Brigadier General Ould Cheikh Ould Boyda.
All discussions focused on how NATO and Mauritania can boost their cooperation. This is part of a larger effort by NATO, to strengthen its Partnerships in the South.
During a meeting with the Mauritanian military leadership, Admiral Bauer had the opportunity to discuss the country’s national approach to terrorism and cross-border crimes, two threats also faced by Allied nations. “When it comes to security, there is no such thing as local. The threats we face are global and interconnected”, stated the NATO Chair of the Military Committee. “This is why the Alliance is adopting a global approach and working more closely with partners around the world. Mauritania is a key Partner in the region. NATO commends Mauritania’s firm commitment to democracy; its stabilising presence in the region; and its commitment to international cooperation.”
During the visit, Admiral Rob Bauer had the opportunity to visit the second battalion commando of the National Special Forces of Mauritania, accompanied by General El Mokhtar Bolle Chaabane. There, the Chair of the Military Committee praised the commitment and professionalism of the Mauritanian special forces, which have been working in close cooperation with their NATO counterparts since 2021 in the context of the Mauritania Defence Capacity Building Package.
The cooperation between NATO and Mauritania dates back to 1995, and has grown significantly in recent years. The Defence Security Capacity Building Package for Mauritania supports the country’s efforts to make its defence and security capacity more resilient. It also helps upgrade training standards for Mauritanian forces, who regularly participate in UN peacekeeping operations.
At the Summit in Washington, Allies will approve a set of measures that is based on a new report by independent experts on the Southern Neighbourhood. Admiral Bauer: “As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of NATO and the 30th anniversary of the Mediterranean Dialogue, we are looking to deepen our Partnerships. This is of great value for a defensive Alliance that is built on bringing together nations with diverse background and history under one banner We want to seize opportunities to grow our cooperation in the service of peace and stability. That is in all our interest.”