Mauritania Roundup: Military weapons, migration, bilateral cooperations, sports
Oman, Mauritania cooperation
Oman and Mauritania signed MoUs to boost economic and trade cooperation, joint investments, and business partnerships. They explored opportunities in sectors such as energy, mining, tourism, agriculture, livestock, and fisheries. The Mauritanian private sector is ready to help Omani companies and several MoUs were signed, including political consultations, diplomatic training, and cooperation in oil and gas, minerals, energy, and ICT, Times of Oman reports
AFCON Beach soccer competition
Nigeria's Beach Soccer team has been drawn against Mauritania for the 2024 AFCON qualifiers. The team will play the first leg in Nouakchott between 19 to 21st July and the second leg in Nigeria between 26 to 28 July. According to BSN Sports, the winner will qualify for the championship in Egypt. Other matches include Senegal vs Guinea, Angola vs Morocco, Ghana vs Cote d'Ivoire, Tanzania vs Uganda, Seychelles vs Mozambique, and Burundi vs Malawi.
Mauritania secures Chinese weaponry
Mauritania has acquired advanced Chinese weaponry, including long-range UAVs and fire support vehicles, to enhance its military capabilities. The acquisition reflects the nation's commitment to modernising its defense resources and protecting its sovereignty. Military Africa reports that this move is expected to contribute to the stability and security of the region. Additionally, Mauritania has a history of acquiring Chinese weaponry, as demonstrated by the unveiling of a new landing ship vessel for its Navy in 2019.
China-Mauritania fisheries commitments
China aims to sign a new fisheries agreement with Mauritania and reinstate a fisheries dialogue. They want to cooperate on wild fisheries capture, aquaculture, and combating illegal fishing. Mauritania welcomes Chinese investment in aquaculture and fish processing. Chinese companies are involved in port redevelopments and fishery operations in Mauritania, SeafoodSource reports. The two countries have had a positive trading relationship in seafood.
Migration
Migrants are turning to Mauritania as a new transit route to reach the EU, with many attempting treacherous sea crossings. Times of Oman reports that the EU has granted €210 million to Mauritania to fight illegal immigration and secure agreements with other countries. Thousands of migrants continue to arrive in Mauritania, hoping to reach Europe despite the risks and controls. Despite the dangers, many are determined to try again to reach Europe for a better life.
