Mauritania, US sign framework agreement on critical minerals cooperation

NOUAKCHOTT, Mauritania (MNTV) — Mauritania and the United States have signed a framework cooperation agreement to deepen collaboration in the development of critical minerals and rare earth elements, with the goal of strengthening supply chains, attracting investment and expanding mineral processing.

The agreement was signed in Nouakchott by Mauritania’s Minister of Mines and Industry, Dy Ould Zeine, and U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Corinna Sanders.

Under the framework, the two countries will cooperate to improve the resilience and security of critical mineral supply chains, encourage investment in the mining sector and facilitate the exchange of technical expertise.

The partnership also seeks to support the exploration, extraction and processing of strategic minerals while increasing the value added to Mauritania’s mineral resources through closer bilateral cooperation.

Mauritanian authorities said the agreement forms part of the country’s broader strategy to establish itself as a competitive destination for investment in critical minerals and rare earth elements, which are increasingly essential for advanced technologies, renewable energy systems and the global energy transition.

The deal is expected to strengthen international cooperation in Mauritania’s mining sector while supporting the country’s efforts to capitalize on growing global demand for strategic mineral resources.