Announcement of the Electrical Interconnection Project Between Morocco and Mauritania: A Strategic Step Towards Energy Cooperation

It is scheduled that a historic agreement will be signed next Thursday between Morocco and Mauritania regarding the electrical interconnection project between the two countries. This project is considered a strategic step that enhances bilateral cooperation in the energy sector, providing significant support for energy infrastructure in the region.

The news was revealed by the Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, Leila Benali, during a meeting of the Committee on Basic Infrastructure, Energy, Mines, Environment, and Sustainable Development on Tuesday. The Mauritanian Minister of Energy and Petroleum, Mohamed Ould Khaled, is expected to arrive in Morocco to sign the anticipated agreement.

In addition to its technical and economic dimensions, this project carries clear political implications, as it is seen as a step reflecting Moroccan-Mauritanian rapprochement. Some may even interpret it as an indirect recognition by Mauritania of Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara.

The National Electricity Regulatory Authority of Morocco had previously signed a memorandum of understanding with its Mauritanian counterpart regarding cooperation in energy regulation. The memorandum aims to enhance and develop cooperation between Mauritania and Morocco in various areas of energy regulation, particularly in electricity, through the exchange of expertise and improving the investment climate.

This agreement paves the way for the electrical interconnection project between the two countries, which aspire to connect with the West African Power Pool (WAPP).

About محمد الفاسي