Algeria and Mauritania have intensified their economic and security cooperation in recent years to address common regional challenges, ranging from revitalizing bilateral trade to tackling security issues in the Sahel-Saharan region.
Thriving Economic Relations
Since 2018, both countries have taken a decisive step by inaugurating the first border post between Tindouf (Algeria) and Zouerate (Mauritania), thus facilitating cross-border trade. The volume of trade has increased from $50 million in 2018 to $414 million in 2023, with expectations to reach $700 million by the end of 2024.
To support this momentum, trade expos like the one in 2018 in Nouakchott, which saw participation from 170 Algerian businesses, have helped increase the visibility of Algerian products in the Mauritanian market. Moreover, the construction of a strategic 840 km road linking Tindouf to Zouerate, costing $600 million, is set to boost economic exchanges and open access to West African markets.
Aim: Reaching African Markets
Algeria sees Mauritania as a strategic corridor to access the ECOWAS market, with a collective GDP of $800 billion and a population of 400 million. Algeria has ramped up its initiatives by opening bank branches in Nouakchott, Nouadhibou, Dakar, and Abidjan, facilitating regional transactions.
During his participation in the summit on youth education and employability in Nouakchott, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune reaffirmed his commitment to Africa, noting that 6,000 African students are currently enrolled in Algerian universities, with 2,500 annual scholarships offered.
Security Cooperation Facing Regional Challenges
Security challenges remain at the forefront of concerns for both countries, with a 460 km border marked by activities of armed groups and smuggling. The deteriorating security situation in the Sahel region, particularly in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, has prompted Algiers and Nouakchott to strengthen their military cooperation.
Last October, Algeria’s Chief of Staff, General Saïd Chengriha, visited Mauritania to coordinate border surveillance efforts and combat terrorism. Controlling border areas also aims to curb drug and arms trafficking, often exploited by extremist groups.
Mauritanian Chief of Staff General Bala Chaaban stated that enhancing security and development projects in border areas are crucial for stabilizing the region.
A Strategic Partnership for the Future
This intensifying cooperation between Algeria and Mauritania, spanning economic, security, and educational spheres, reflects the ambition of both nations to play a central role in the stability and development of the Sahel-Saharan region. By combining infrastructure projects, increased trade exchanges, and military coordination, Algiers and Nouakchott are paving the way for a promising strategic partnership.
