فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
Rabat – November 11 – In a strategic move reflecting enhanced bilateral cooperation, Moroccan and Mauritanian authorities announced the imminent opening of the new Amghala land border crossing, which connects the city of Smara in Morocco’s southern provinces with the Bir Umm Ghrein area in northern Mauritania, constituting the second crossing after Guerguerat and opening new horizons for inter-trade and economic integration in the region.
The crossing extends over a distance of approximately 53 kilometers and comes as the second official land passage between the two countries, aiming to facilitate the movement of goods and people and strengthen trade links with West African countries. According to official sources, work is nearing completion, with expectations to begin operations within a few weeks, possibly at the beginning of December 2025.
Strategic Importance and Impact on Regional Stability
Concerned authorities confirmed that the opening of the crossing represents “another nail in the coffin” of regional conflicts, especially in the context of the Moroccan Sahara, as it enhances Morocco’s position as a bridge between Europe and Africa. It is expected to contribute to developing commercial exchange, which currently suffers from constraints at the sole Guerguerat crossing, driving toward diversifying land routes and reducing congestion.
Reports also indicated that Mauritania, through its official approval of the project, is challenging threats from the Polisario Front and moving closer to implicit recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara, which enhances stability in the region and opens doors for joint investment in transportation and trade sectors.
Preparations and Related Projects
Work on the crossing began months ago, with the launch of infrastructure projects by the Mauritanian Ministry of Equipment and Transport, including road development and securing the border area. This project is part of a broader strategy to strengthen economic ties, as Nouakchott officially announced its opening in August 2025, with expectations of a radical transformation in regional trade movement.
This development comes at a time when Moroccan-Mauritanian cooperation is witnessing notable growth, with a focus on combating security and economic challenges in the Greater Sahara, enhancing Morocco’s role as a major regional hub.
