Morocco and Mauritania strengthen their road and trade cooperation. Signed on September 22, 2026, in Rabat, a framework agreement provides for the rehabilitation and widening of the Nouakchott–Nouadhibou road link over 480 kilometres. This strategic project aims to facilitate the transport of goods and support trade exchanges, which exceeded USD 400 million in 2025.
On September 22, 2026, Morocco and Mauritania signed a framework agreement in Rabat for the rehabilitation and widening of the road linking Nouakchott and Nouadhibou. Stretching 480 kilometres, this route is one of the main road corridors between the two countries and a key link for trade between West Africa and the Maghreb.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank my friend and counterpart, Nizar Baraka, for this invitation, as well as for the considerable work carried out by the technical teams from the various ministries. This work has enabled us to sign this historic agreement, which will have significant implications.”
AL-ALI OULD EL-FERIK, Minister of Equipment and Water – Mauritania
This road corridor facilitates the transport of food products, fruits and vegetables, construction materials, industrial equipment, and consumer goods. In 2025, the volume of trade between Morocco and Mauritania surpassed US$400 million, representing an increase of approximately 30% compared with 2023. Furthermore, the Kingdom remains Mauritania’s leading African supplier, accounting for around 40% of the country’s imports from the continent.
“This funding will make it possible to develop a strategic road linking Nouadhibou to Lyon, via Kilometer 55. It will therefore complement the development efforts undertaken by our two countries, given the strategic and commercial importance of this corridor for Mauritania and Mali.”
AL-ALI OULD EL-FERIK, Minister of Equipment and Water – Mauritania
Beyond the modernization of the road, the agreement provides for the establishment of a joint engineering consultancy office in Mauritania to support the implementation of the project. The two countries aim to strengthen their technical coordination and promote the growth of trade, investment, and regional economic integration.
