The Atlantic Initiative: How Nouadhibou and Lagouira Are Set to Become the Region’s “New Dubai”
In a masterful demonstration of visionary diplomacy and strategic cooperation, historic private discussions recently took place between the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), His Highness Mohamed bin Zayed (MBZ), and the President of Mauritania, Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani. These discussions, part of the ambitious Atlantic Initiative of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, herald a new era of prosperity for Mauritania and the Atlantic coast shared with Morocco.
The Atlantic Initiative, the cornerstone of Morocco’s economic and geostrategic vision, aims to transform the region into an international-scale commercial and industrial hub. The full financial support of the UAE for this colossal project promises not only to strengthen trilateral relations between Rabat, Abu Dhabi, and Nouakchott, but also to propel Mauritania toward unprecedented economic growth.
Structural Investments: Nouadhibou and Lagouira, Future Beacons of the Atlantic: During the discussions, Mohamed bin Zayed assured Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani that these investments would radically transform the Mauritanian economy, elevating the coastal cities of Nouadhibou in Mauritania and Lagouira in Morocco to the status of “new Dubai” of the region. This ambition is based on massive investments in port infrastructure, maritime trade, and industrial zones, with the clear goal of turning these cities into economic hubs connecting Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.
Nouadhibou, a strategic Mauritanian port, is preparing to become a major logistics center for mining, oil, and fishing exports. Meanwhile, Lagouira, located at the southern tip of Morocco, is ideally positioned to develop high-value-added port activities, thus attracting international companies specializing in logistics and renewable energy.
A Shared Vision: Morocco’s Central Role His Majesty King Mohammed VI, the central figure in this initiative, highlights Morocco’s stability and visionary leadership as a catalyst for regional development. The King has long advocated for enhanced South-South economic cooperation, and this initiative further confirms Morocco’s leading role in building a prosperous future for West Africa.
The initiative is not limited to the economic aspect; it is part of a broader logic of stabilization and development, thereby strengthening security and cooperation throughout the region. The UAE, with its financial capacity and expertise in urban and technological development, is the ideal partner to bring this vision to life.
A Transformative Impact: A New Era for Mauritania For Mauritania, these investments represent a unique opportunity to diversify its economy and create sustainable jobs for its youth. The transformation of Nouadhibou into a reference industrial and commercial hub will enable Mauritania to become a major player in maritime trade and logistics in West Africa.
Mohamed bin Zayed emphasized that the UAE is committed to supporting Mauritania in this new trajectory, assuring that the economic benefits will reach the entire Mauritanian population. The UAE’s determination to make Mauritania a model of development and modernity reflects Abu Dhabi’s deep commitment to strengthening intra-African and Arab cooperation.
A “Win-Win” Triangular Cooperation: The Atlantic Initiative of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, supported by Mohamed bin Zayed and Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, embodies the strength of triangular cooperation. It reaffirms the need to unite forces to ensure shared and sustainable growth. This initiative, which will stretch along the Moroccan and Mauritanian coasts, represents more than just an economic project; it is a true symbol of solidarity and collective prosperity.
By combining their visions and resources, Morocco, Mauritania, and the UAE are reshaping the future of the African Atlantic, placing the region on the path to unprecedented growth. The world will watch with admiration as this transformation turns Nouadhibou and Lagouira into economic jewels comparable to Dubai.
Source: Le7tv
