Morocco-Algeria Rivalry Intensifies Over Mauritania’s Strategic Alignment
Berlin-based think tank SWP highlights growing geopolitical competition between North African powers.
Geopolitical Tensions in North Africa
A new report from the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP) reveals escalating competition between Morocco and Algeria for influence in Mauritania. The strategically located country has become a focal point in North Africa’s shifting power dynamics.
Key Findings of the SWP Report
Authored by researchers Wolfram Lacher and Isabelle Werenfels, the study titled “Mauritania’s Balancing Act Amid Moroccan-Algerian Rivalry” examines the economic and diplomatic struggle between Rabat and Algiers across the Sahel region. Both nations are actively courting Mauritania’s strategic partnership.
Historical Context and Current Developments
While Mauritania recognized the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic in 1984, it has since maintained a policy of “positive neutrality.” Recent geopolitical shifts—including Morocco’s diplomatic gains through normalization with Israel and international recognition of its Sahara autonomy plan—have intensified regional competition.
Morocco’s Atlantic Initiative
The report highlights Morocco’s November 2023 launch of the Atlantic Initiative, designed to provide landlocked West African nations access to Atlantic trade routes via Dakhla port. Analysts view this as part of Rabat’s broader strategy to strengthen regional influence and reinforce its Western Sahara claims.
Energy Projects Add Complexity
The rivalry extends to energy infrastructure, with Morocco’s proposed Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline competing against Algeria’s alternative route. The SWP notes Mauritania’s potential reluctance to join the Atlantic Initiative, fearing Dakhla’s development might overshadow Nouakchott’s own port ambitions.
Morocco’s Stronger Regional Ties
Despite tensions, the report acknowledges Morocco’s deeper connections with Mauritania through private investments, Sufi spiritual networks, and educational exchanges. Wealthy Mauritanians reportedly prefer Morocco for education and healthcare services.
Mauritania’s Delicate Balancing Act
The SWP emphasizes Nouakchott’s commitment to neutrality, avoiding overt alignment despite both neighbors’ overtures. Mauritanian officials maintain diplomatic silence even regarding Morocco’s announcements of bilateral cooperation.
Conclusion: An Uneven but Unchanged Landscape
While Morocco demonstrates more visible regional engagement, the report concludes that Mauritania’s official nonalignment policy remains unchanged. Both North African powers continue competing to shape perceptions of Nouakchott’s geopolitical leanings.
This article summarizes findings from the original SWP report. For complete analysis, read the full study here.