Non-binding joint declaration by Mauritania and the EU on migration
Mauritania and the European Union (EU) signed and made public, Thursday March 7 in Nouakchott, a joint declaration (not legally binding) establishing the strengthening of a partnership on migration.
The points concerning in particular the management and fight against irregular migration were eagerly awaited by public opinion, after having been the subject of speculation on social networks.
Speculation repeatedly denied by the government.
Details of the public document.
Refugees wait at the M'Berra center in Bassikounou, Mauritania, June 7, 2022. (illustration) AFP - GUY PETERSON
By: RFI Follow
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With our correspondent in Nouakchott
,
Léa Breuil
According to the roadmap annexed to the declaration, five themes
around migration
will be the subject of consultation: one chapter to facilitate the social cohesion of young people through socio-economic opportunities, another to support Mauritania to respond to the influx of refugees and support the communities that welcome them, or to support student mobility by, for example, improving visa issuing procedures.
But there are also highly anticipated chapters, such as those concerning the fight against irregular immigration and migrant smuggling, or that concerning border management, surveillance and control.
Jean-Marc Dewerpe, head of cooperation of the European Union delegation in Mauritania:
“
Fight and prosecute migrant smuggling networks and human trafficking networks, including through concerted investigations.
Strengthening the means and capacities of the authorities responsible for border management.
Strengthen search and rescue operations.
Facilitate the return of those who do not have the right to stay while respecting human rights.
»
Concerning returns to Mauritania, the document only mentions the potential return of “Mauritanians staying irregularly in Europe”.
An important clarification according to Abdessalam Ould Mohamed Saleh, Minister of the Economy: “
I affirm here that Mauritania will never be the (alternative) homeland of illegal foreign migrants.
We will not receive them, shelter them or grant them citizenship.
»
As part of strengthening this partnership,
more than 210 million euros
should be allocated by the end of the year.
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