Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s visit to Mauritania has drawn mixed reactions, with many observers describing it as a “cold visit” due to the lack of usual diplomatic ceremonies and a reception that was not fitting for such an important event, the first of its kind in over three decades. This visit takes place in a tense regional context, with Algeria trying to influence its neighbors, especially regarding the Moroccan Sahara issue.
Mauritania’s Positive Neutrality Policy
Mauritania reaffirms its commitment to a policy of positive neutrality on sensitive regional issues, particularly the Sahara issue. Mauritanian leaders seek to avoid taking sides in a way that could harm their strategic interests, while Algeria continues to try to convince Mauritania to support its regional orientations.
- What is the significance of the cold reception for Tebboune?
Observers see this reception as a clear message from Mauritania’s leadership rejecting Algerian pressure. But can this be seen as the beginning of a shift in Mauritania’s stance on the Sahara issue?
Algerian Attempts to Reshape the Maghreb Bloc
According to Algerian opposition journalist Walid Kébir, Tebboune’s visit was preceded by a visit from Algerian army chief of staff Saïd Chengriha to Mauritania to pressure the country into joining Algeria’s Maghreb unity project, which excludes Morocco.
- Could these pressures affect Mauritania’s political balance?
Mauritania’s leadership remains steadfast in its decision to preserve its political independence, but growing pressure could put the country to the test, especially as Moroccan cooperation initiatives in the Sahel region continue to develop.
Algerian Concerns Over a Potential Change in Mauritania’s Position
Observers point out Algeria’s concerns over a potential significant shift in Mauritania’s stance on the Sahara issue. The growing international support for Morocco’s position, as well as the closer ties between France and Morocco, are causing anxiety within Algerian leadership.
- How will Algeria deal with this challenge?
Algeria’s efforts to maintain regional allies seem to have limited impact, especially with changes in international politics and evolving positions from several countries.
Mauritania Between Pressures and Opportunities
Mauritania is fully aware of its strategic location but finds itself caught between the hammer of Algerian pressure and the anvil of the need to maintain balanced relations with Morocco and other countries.
- Could Mauritania become a key regional player?
By maintaining its policy of neutrality, Mauritania could play a central role in calming regional tensions if it manages to use its diplomatic independence as leverage to resolve conflicts rather than becoming involved in them.
Conclusions and Lessons
The Algerian president’s visit to Mauritania highlights the evident failure of Algeria’s objectives. Meanwhile, Mauritania strengthens its position as a neutral country, refusing to engage in regional conflicts that do not serve its interests.
But the key question remains: How long can Mauritania maintain this balance between regional and international pressures? And could it make significant changes in its foreign policy regarding the Sahara in the near future?
