Strengthening Diplomatic Relations: Chinese and Mauritanian Presidents Enhance Bilateral Ties
Chinese President Xi Jinping recently met with Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh Ghazouani at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, marking a significant step in enhancing bilateral relations between the two nations. The meeting took place as President Ghazouani attended the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), underscoring the importance of cooperation between China and Mauritania on both regional and global issues.
Elevation of Bilateral Ties to a Strategic Partnership
During their meeting, Presidents Xi and Ghazouani jointly announced the elevation of bilateral ties to a strategic partnership, signifying a deeper level of cooperation and mutual understanding between China and Mauritania. President Xi emphasized the longstanding friendship between the two countries, highlighting the respect, equality, and solid political mutual trust that have characterized their relationship over the years. China values Mauritania’s unwavering support on matters concerning China’s core interests and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Mauritania’s development path in alignment with its national conditions.
Promoting Cooperation through the Belt and Road Initiative
President Xi expressed China’s willingness to collaborate with Mauritania in advancing cooperation within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative. This initiative aims to deepen cooperation across various sectors and transform bilateral relations into a model of friendly exchanges and mutually beneficial cooperation between nations. President Xi commended President Ghazouani for his constructive role in preparing for the FOCAC summit as the rotating chairperson of the African Union, underscoring China’s commitment to strengthening ties with Mauritania and the broader African continent.
Shared Commitment to Peace and Development
President Ghazouani echoed President Xi’s sentiments, emphasizing the strong and profound friendship between Mauritania and China. He expressed gratitude for China’s invaluable support for Mauritania’s economic and social development, particularly in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Mauritania reaffirmed its adherence to the one-China principle and its stance against any actions that undermine this principle. President Ghazouani underscored the shared positions of Mauritania and China on key global issues, such as the Palestinian question, opposition to interference in internal affairs of other countries, and the promotion of peace and development.
As the world faces various challenges and uncertainties, President Ghazouani emphasized the importance of deepening cooperation with China as a pathway to sustainable development for Mauritania and other nations. He highlighted the alignment between Mauritania and China on critical issues such as respect for national sovereignty, opposition to violent extremism, and the promotion of international fairness and justice. President Ghazouani expressed his optimism about collaborating closely with China to ensure the success of the 2024 FOCAC summit and to advance peace and development efforts in Africa and beyond.
In conclusion, the meeting between Presidents Xi and Ghazouani represents a significant milestone in strengthening diplomatic relations between China and Mauritania. The elevation of bilateral ties to a strategic partnership underscores the commitment of both nations to deepening cooperation, promoting mutual understanding, and advancing shared goals of peace and development. As China and Mauritania forge ahead in their partnership, the world can look forward to witnessing the positive impact of their collaboration on regional stability, economic growth, and global governance.