Mauritania President highlights need for increased int’l support to mitigating effects of climate change

Addis Ababa, February 15, 2025 (FMC) – President Muhammad Ould Ghazouani of Mauritania and the outgoing Chairperson of the African Union (AU) stressed the critical importance of addressing climate change and advocating for increased international support in mitigating its adverse effects.

The President concluded his tenure as Chairperson of AU with a farewell address at the 2025 AU Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia before handing over to President of Angola, João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, who took over the rotating African Union (AU) chairmanship.

Speaking at the event, President Ghazouani said during his term he prioritized peace and security across the continent, actively engaging in conflict resolution efforts in Sudan, Libya, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Furthermore, President Ghazouani said he championed the economic development of Africa, securing significant financial commitments from international partners and prioritizing agricultural development to enhance food security.

He also recognized the critical importance of addressing climate change and advocated for increased international support in mitigating its adverse effects.

President Ghazouani championed institutional reforms within the AU, emphasizing the need for equitable leadership distribution and advocating for increased African representation in global governance.

He expressed confidence that the AU, under the leadership of President Lourenço, will continue to strive towards achieving the goals outlined in Agenda 2063.