NOUAKCHOTT, Mauritania (BG) – Mauritania and Senegal have taken a significant step forward in their energy partnership by signing a strategic bilateral agreement focused on the energy sector.

This landmark agreement was formalized on Monday during a high-level meeting chaired by Mauritania’s Minister of Energy and Petroleum, Mohamed Ould Khaled, and Senegal’s Minister of Petroleum, Energy and Mines, Birame Souleye Diop.

The signing coincided with the official visit of Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko to Mauritania.

The meeting marks the deepening cooperation between the two countries following the start of gas production at the Grand Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) project on December 31, 2024.

The GTA project positions both Mauritania and Senegal among the ranks of gas exporting countries, highlighting their growing influence in the global energy market.

Central to the signed MoU is a robust framework designed to maximize local participation and ensure sustainable economic benefits.

According to the Senegalese Ministry of Energy, key provisions of the agreement include:

– Creating employment opportunities and promoting local expertise in the oil and gas industry.

– Developing a skilled and competitive local workforce through specialized training programs.

– Strengthening national capabilities through technology transfer and knowledge sharing.

– Support national companies to enhance their global competitiveness.

– Establish a transparent monitoring mechanism to oversee local content commitments.

This strategic partnership not only promises economic growth, but also exemplifies Mauritania and Senegal’s commitment to fostering a sustainable and prosperous energy future for their citizens.

Both countries are poised to become key energy players in the region, contributing to West Africa’s energy security and economic resilience.