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Ministry of Foreign Affairs Announces Forum for Mauritanian Expatriates
Strengthening Ties with the Mauritanian Diaspora
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Mauritanians Abroad has officially announced the organization of a national forum dedicated to Mauritanian expatriates. This initiative aims to reinforce the connection between the Mauritanian state and its citizens living abroad, recognizing their vital role in national development and international representation. The forum is scheduled to take place in Nouakchott from July 28 to 30, 2024, and will bring together Mauritanians from across the globe.
According to the Ministry, the event will serve as a platform for dialogue, exchange of ideas, and the formulation of strategies to better integrate the diaspora into the country’s development plans. It also reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the concerns of Mauritanians abroad and enhancing their participation in national affairs.
Forum Objectives and Key Themes
The forum will focus on several key themes that are central to the interests and aspirations of the Mauritanian diaspora. These include:
- Strengthening the institutional framework for engaging with expatriates
- Encouraging investment and economic participation from the diaspora
- Promoting Mauritanian culture and identity abroad
- Improving consular services and legal protections for citizens overseas
- Facilitating knowledge and skills transfer from expatriates to local institutions
Participants will include government officials, representatives of Mauritanian communities abroad, civil society actors, and experts in migration and development. The forum will feature panel discussions, workshops, and networking sessions designed to foster collaboration and actionable outcomes.
Inclusive Participation and Long-Term Vision
The Ministry emphasized that the forum is part of a broader strategy to institutionalize the relationship between the state and its diaspora. It aims to create a permanent framework for consultation and cooperation, ensuring that the voices of Mauritanians abroad are heard and considered in national policymaking. Special attention will be given to youth and women in the diaspora, recognizing their unique contributions and challenges.
To ensure broad participation, the Ministry has launched a digital platform where expatriates can register, submit proposals, and engage with the forum’s agenda ahead of the event. This inclusive approach is designed to maximize the impact of the forum and ensure that it reflects the diverse perspectives of Mauritanians living in different parts of the world.
Conclusion: A Strategic Step Toward National Unity
The upcoming forum represents a strategic step by the Mauritanian government to harness the potential of its diaspora and strengthen national unity. By creating a space for dialogue and collaboration, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and participatory approach to development. The event is expected to yield concrete recommendations and initiatives that will benefit both expatriates and the homeland, reinforcing the idea that Mauritania’s future is a shared responsibility—no matter where its citizens reside.
