Mauritania's Foreign Minister promises solutions for trucking concerns with Morocco

During a tour of the Maghreb region, spanning Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya, Mauritanian Foreign Minister Mohamed Salem Ould Marzouk addressed in Rabat today outstanding matters, notably concerning Moroccan trucks, during a press conference with Moroccan counterpart Nasser Bourita.

“We’re working on resolving all issues between Rabat and Nouakchott, with those Moroccan trucks taking center stage in our ongoing discussions,” the Mauritanian official said.

Mauritania increased customs duties by 171% earlier this month at the El Guerguerat border crossing, linking Morocco with its southern neighbor and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) region. 

The customs clearance cost for cargo surged from 1,600 euros to over 4,600 euros. 

Denying rumors of Mauritanian authorities backtracking on customs duties, Mauritanian and Moroccan sources affirmed to Hespress AR the decision’s standing. Despite concerns among business folks on both ends, especially about the commercial fallout, there’s been no rethink.

Ould Marzouk asserted, “We have a solid structure and a track record to address outstanding matters with the Kingdom of Morocco.” He underscored the purpose of his visit, carrying a message from President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, signaling Mauritania’s desire for progress and prosperity for the Moroccan people.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Nasser Bourita emphasized Mauritania’s role in the Royal Atlantic Initiative, stating, “Mauritania is pivotal in economic workshops benefitting Sahel countries.” Bourita highlighted constant communication between Nouakchott and Rabat, emphasizing the visit’s strategic importance per President Ghazouani’s orders.

Pledging support for Mauritania’s stability, Bourita pointed out the upward trajectory of bilateral relations, covering humanitarian gestures, economic entanglements, and the dynamic dance of Mauritanian diplomacy.