Breaking news/ Mauritanian President Makes Unannounced Visit to Morocco

Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani made an unannounced trip to Rabat, Morocco, reportedly to check on the health of First Lady Mariem Fadel Dah, who recently underwent surgery. Although designated as a private visit, speculation surrounds potential diplomatic discussions during this brief stay, reflecting regional dynamics between Mauritania and Morocco.

Breaking news/ Mauritanian President Makes Unannounced Visit to Morocco
Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani

In a surprising turn of events, Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani departed from Nouakchott on Wednesday evening, heading to Rabat, Morocco, for what has been described as a "private visit". The Mauritanian News Agency reported the president's departure, sparking interest in the nature and purpose of this unannounced trip.

Purpose of the Visit

While official sources have been tight-lipped about the details of President El Ghazouani's visit, emerging reports suggest a personal motive behind the journey:

  • Health Concerns: The visit is believed to be related to the health of Mauritania's First Lady, Mariem Fadel Dah.
  • Recent Surgery: Sources indicate that the First Lady recently underwent surgery at a clinic in Rabat following a health issue she experienced at her residence in Nouakchott.
  • Presidential Concern: The Minister in charge of the Presidency, Nani Ould Chrougha, confirmed in a tweet that the purpose of El Ghazouani's visit is to check on his wife's health condition.

Diplomatic Implications

Although characterized as a private visit, the sudden nature of the trip has led to speculation about potential diplomatic engagements:

  • Bilateral Relations: Some sources have not ruled out the possibility of President El Ghazouani meeting with Moroccan officials during his stay.
  • Regional Dynamics: The visit comes at a time of evolving relationships in the Maghreb region, potentially signaling continued cooperation between Mauritania and Morocco.

Duration and Itinerary

Details about the length of the president's stay and his specific itinerary remain undisclosed. However, it is expected that:

  • President El Ghazouani will visit his wife at her private residence in Rabat.
  • The visit is likely to be brief, with the president expected to return to Nouakchott shortly after.

As this story develops, further information may emerge about the outcomes of this private presidential visit and its implications for Mauritanian-Moroccan relations.