H.E. Mohamed Salem Ould Merzouk, Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Mauritanians Abroad, emphasized during his speech at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Saturday that this session marks a milestone to celebrate 80 years of UN achievements while also assessing the gaps and shortcomings in its journey.
The Minister highlighted the growing disparity between countries advancing rapidly toward the Fourth Industrial Revolution and AI, and those still burdened by poverty and marginalization, stressing the need for fair and inclusive solutions that prioritize human dignity and the right to a decent life.
He underscored that the genocidal war in Gaza constitutes a critical test of human conscience and international credibility, reiterating Mauritania’s condemnation of the Israeli aggression and full support for the Palestinian people’s right to an independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital. He also welcomed international momentum supporting Palestinian recognition, commending the Saudi-French initiative that led to the New York Declaration on the two-state solution.
Full Text of the Minister’s Address
“Mr. President,
Your Majesties and Excellencies,
Mr. António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations,
Excellencies, ladies, and gentlemen,
Peace, mercy, and blessings be upon you.I would like to begin by congratulating H.E. Annalena Baerbock on her election as President of the 80th session. Her experience and competence will undoubtedly contribute to the effective leadership of this session. I also extend my gratitude to H.E. Philémon Yang for his leadership of the previous session, and to the UN Secretary-General for his relentless efforts to strengthen the Organization.
Mr. President,
I convey the warm greetings of H.E. President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani and his best wishes for a successful 80th session. This session is an opportunity to celebrate 80 years of achievements and to objectively assess the major gaps and deficiencies that have marked the UN’s path.
Today, our world is divided: one part rapidly advancing toward the Fourth Industrial Revolution and AI, while the other remains trapped in poverty and marginalization. This reality requires concerted efforts to develop fair and inclusive solutions centered on human rights and dignity.
The genocidal war in Gaza is a decisive test for both human conscience and the credibility of the international system. Mauritania reaffirms its support for the Palestinian people in claiming their right to an independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital, and welcomes the international recognition momentum, exemplified by the New York Declaration stemming from the high-level Saudi-French initiative.
At the same time, Mauritania condemns the recent Israeli aggression against the State of Qatar, reaffirming support for peaceful solutions in Libya, Sudan, Yemen, Syria, and endorsing UN efforts regarding Western Sahara. We also call for a negotiated end to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and commend recent peace agreements between Rwanda and the DRC, and Pakistan and India.
In Mauritania, strengthening the rule of law, good governance, justice, and equality remains a top priority. Reforms have been implemented to ensure transparency, judicial independence, parliamentary oversight, anti-corruption measures, and protection of rights and freedoms.
The government also promotes inclusive development, building schools, healthcare centers, and dams, improving living standards across the country. The comprehensive health insurance program now covers 21% of the population.
Mauritania has reinforced human rights protections, combating slavery and human trafficking, and hosts nearly 250,000 Malian refugees, regularizing the status of over 150,000 migrants with full respect for their rights and dignity.
In education, the country has launched a comprehensive reform involving curriculum development, vocational training, and promotion of citizenship values. Efforts have also been made to enhance women’s participation in public life and improve healthcare services.
Economically, Mauritania is diversifying its economy, achieving 5% growth in 2024 with expected inflation below 2.5%. In sustainable energy, projects include a hybrid renewable energy plant, adoption of green hydrogen legislation, and partnerships with the World Bank through initiatives like DREAM. Environmental protection and participation in COP30 highlight Mauritania’s commitment to climate action.
Mr. President,
Mauritania remains committed to multilateral cooperation and reforming global governance to strengthen our collective ability to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, contributing to regional and global security, and building partnerships to overcome challenges, ensuring a safe and dignified life for all.”
