Gambiaj.com – (Nouakchott, Mauritania) – In response to the wave of detentions and expulsions of irregular migrants in Mauritania, Gambian Foreign Minister Mamadou Tangara traveled to Nouakchott on Friday, March 28, 2025, to engage with Mauritanian authorities on the plight of affected Gambians.

According to the Mauritanian State Information Agency (AMI), Minister Tangara was received by President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani to discuss the ongoing crackdown that has primarily targeted Malians, Senegalese, Ivorians, Guineans, and Gambians.

Speaking after the meeting, Minister Tangara acknowledged the necessity of immigration regularization but emphasized the need for cooperation to address the broader challenges of migration and human trafficking.

“You are undoubtedly aware that there have recently been some issues concerning the regularization of individuals in an irregular situation in this country, which has affected some Gambians. My very fruitful discussion with His Excellency, the President of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, has provided us with much-needed clarity,” Tangara stated.

While recognizing the importance of accurate population data and enforcement of immigration laws, Tangara urged for a collaborative approach in addressing migration challenges.

He commended his Mauritanian counterpart, Minister Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug, for his ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking, a major concern affecting many West African nations.

“Today, the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Ocean have become graveyards for Africans. It is essential that we work together to put an end to this scourge, which is eating away at our society,” he added.

To this end, Tangara revealed that plans are underway for a ministerial meeting involving foreign affairs and interior ministers to discuss coordinated strategies for tackling migration-related issues.

Additionally, the Gambian foreign minister delivered a message from Gambian President Adama Barrow, reaffirming the strong bilateral ties between The Gambia and Mauritania. He extended The Gambia’s best wishes for Mauritania’s continued prosperity, particularly in the spirit of Ramadan.

Cheikh Omar Faye, the Ambassador of the Republic of Gambia in Nouakchott, also attended the meeting.

The mass detentions and deportations in Mauritania have drawn concern across the region, with affected countries seeking diplomatic engagement to ensure the protection of their citizens.

The outcome of the planned ministerial meeting is expected to shape future migration policies between The Gambia and Mauritania, as well as other West African nations.