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Government Spokesperson Denies Presence of Foreign Troops in Mauritania
Official Clarification Amid Regional Security Concerns
The Mauritanian government has firmly denied recent rumors and media reports suggesting the presence of foreign military forces on its territory. In a press briefing held in Nouakchott, the official spokesperson for the government, Minister of Culture, Youth, Sports, and Relations with Parliament, Mohamed Ould Soueidatt, stated unequivocally that there are no foreign troops stationed in Mauritania. He emphasized that the country’s sovereignty remains intact and that all security operations are conducted solely by national forces.
This statement comes in response to growing speculation in local and regional media about possible foreign military deployments in Mauritania, particularly in light of the deteriorating security situation in parts of the Sahel region. The government’s clarification aims to reassure the public and affirm Mauritania’s independent stance in managing its internal and border security.
Commitment to National Sovereignty and Regional Stability
Ould Soueidatt reiterated that Mauritania maintains a clear and consistent policy of non-alignment and independence in its defense and foreign affairs. He highlighted that the country cooperates with international partners in areas such as training and intelligence sharing, but this cooperation does not involve the deployment of foreign combat troops on Mauritanian soil.
- All military operations are conducted by Mauritanian armed forces.
- International cooperation is limited to non-combat support such as training and logistics.
- The government remains committed to preserving national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The spokesperson also noted that Mauritania continues to play a constructive role in regional security initiatives, particularly through its participation in the G5 Sahel framework. However, he stressed that this involvement does not compromise the country’s autonomy or invite foreign military presence within its borders.
Public Reassurance and Strategic Communication
In his remarks, Ould Soueidatt called on citizens and media outlets to rely on official sources for accurate information and to avoid spreading unverified claims that could undermine national unity or create unnecessary alarm. He affirmed the government’s transparency and its readiness to communicate openly with the public on matters of national interest.
The government’s denial serves not only to dispel rumors but also to reinforce Mauritania’s image as a stable and sovereign nation in a region often marked by external interventions and security challenges. By addressing the issue directly, the government aims to maintain public confidence and uphold its independent foreign policy.
Conclusion: A Clear Message of Sovereignty
In summary, the Mauritanian government has categorically denied the presence of any foreign military forces within its territory. Through the official statement by its spokesperson, the government reaffirmed its commitment to national sovereignty, regional cooperation without foreign interference, and transparent communication with its citizens. This clear stance underscores Mauritania’s determination to manage its security affairs independently while contributing to broader regional stability.
