Spain and Mauritania have taken a firm step to intensify their technological collaboration., following the signing of a strategic agreement aimed at improving the cybersecurity of both countries. This initiative comes within a context marked by the rise of global digital threats and the rise of challenges in the cyber environment, with particular attention to the protection of citizens, the economy, and critical infrastructure.
The signing of this memorandum of understanding arises from the First High-Level Meeting between the governments of Spain and Mauritania, held in Nouakchott, and was attended by Presidents Pedro Sánchez and Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, along with a large ministerial representation from both countries. The agreement demonstrates the willingness of both States to deepen bilateral relations and face together the technological challenges of the present.
Shared commitment to cybersecurity
Among the star measures agreed upon, the following stands out: cooperation in cybersecurity through an agreement signed by the National Cybersecurity Institute (INCIBE) and its Mauritanian counterpart. This collaboration framework includes the exchange of information on threats and vulnerabilities, as well as the implementation of technical training programs, awareness-raising, and educational initiatives that contribute to developing local talent in the digital field.
One of the pillars of the agreement is the protection of minors online, reflecting the joint commitment to addressing digital risks affecting children. Furthermore, the text reflects the intention of promote research and specialized industry in cybersecurity, strengthening academic and technical cooperation between both countries.
The Spanish delegation has underlined the importance of “Without cybersecurity, digital transformation is not possible.”, stressing that technology must contribute to people's well-being and security. Minister Óscar López stated that Mauritania is a priority partner for Spain in the Sahel region, in a scenario where digitalization is emerging as a driver of inclusive development.
Training, protection and transfer of knowledge
The bilateral agreement also involves the implementation of exchanges of experts, seminars and joint technical missions. In addition, it includes training and awareness-raising activities aimed at civil servants, ICT professionals and citizens, with the aim of increase the level of resilience against cyberattacks in both countries.
An important part of the agreement responds to the express request of the Mauritanian government, which seeks specialized support to design a national cybersecurity strategy, create a national incident response center, and strengthen the protection of key infrastructure, particularly in the energy sector. INCIBE, backed by experience in multiple international agreements and a Spanish investment of over €224 million in technological innovation, will be responsible for leading this cooperation.
An alliance that goes beyond cybersecurity
In addition to the technological agreement, the bilateral summit has served to promote three other relevant memoranda of understanding between both countries. On the one hand, the agreements for:
- Improve the management of national parks and biosphere reserves, exchanging experiences and developing training in biodiversity and ecosystem restoration.
- Establish a common framework for infrastructure and transport, addressing strategic planning, railway development, digitalization and sustainability of transport services.
- Strengthening the protection of migrant workers, with technical assistance and review of agreements for those moving between the two African and European countries.
The will to expand cooperation in matters such as the management of migratory flows, the economy, educational exchanges and learning Spanish.
A forward-looking institutional framework
The joint declaration signed by Pedro Sánchez and Mohamed Ould Ghazouani underlines the importance of Strengthen political dialogue and respect for the principles of the United Nations CharterThe ministerial delegations focused on sustainable development, security, culture, and the fight against disinformation and racism, at a particularly sensitive time for migration control in the Sahel region.
Finally, Spain's international experience with cybersecurity agreements in countries from different regions, together with the INCIBE's leadership and its technical and human resources, position Mauritania as a key ally for the technological and security challenges on a Euro-African scale. To learn more about the cybersecurity work, you can also visit the cybersecurity bootcamp in León.
