In Mauritania, DSRSG BIHA Reaffirms UN Support For Mauritania’s Efforts to Consolidate Peace And Development

29 Mar 2023

In Mauritania, DSRSG BIHA Reaffirms UN Support For Mauritania’s Efforts to Consolidate Peace And Development

The Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Acting Head of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), Ms. Giovanie BIHA, today concluded a three-day working visit to the Islamic Republic of Mauritania.

This visit is part of UNOWAS’ commitment towards strengthening partnerships with Mauritania and the countries of the sub-region.

During her visit, the Deputy Special Representative was received in audience by His Excellency Mr. Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, President of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania. She also met with Salem Ould Merzoug, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Mauritanians Abroad; Mr. Hanena Ould Sidi, Minister of National Defence; Ms. Saviya Mint N'Tehah, Minister of Social Action, Childhood and Family; Mr. Mohamed Ahmed Ould Mohamed Lemine, Minister of Interior and Decentralization; and Mr. Ousmane Mamoudou Kane, Minister of Economic Affairs and Promotion of the Productive Sector. Ms Biha also met with Mr Dah Ould Abdel Jelil, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC), as well as with the civil society organisation, the Mourchidâtes women's initiative.

The partnership between Mauritania and the United Nations, the national and regional situation, including the upcoming legislative, local and municipal elections, and support for the G5 Sahel to advance peace and development in the Sahel, were among the topics discussed during the various meetings. To all her interlocutors, Ms Biha praised Mauritania's leading role in the fight against terrorism and insecurity and reiterated the UN's support for Mauritania's presidency of the G5 Sahel.

The Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Acting Head of UNOWAS reaffirmed the UN's commitment to support Mauritania's tireless efforts to strengthen peace and development.