Bonjour and good day,

Let me begin by expressing my appreciation to the Government and people of Mauritania for their wonderful hospitality over what has proved to be an enlightening and busy day. 

As the Charge d’ Affairs mentioned, Admiral Peterman and I are in Mauritania to listen and learn about our common problems so we can work together to find common solutions.  We have had the opportunity to see and learn a lot in our short time here.  I’ve been impressed with the presentations by your Ministers of Defense, Transport, and Fisheries and officials from the National Guard, Gendarmarie, and Armed Forces.  Our discussions raised key issues that are important to Mauritania and to the United States and I am excited at the prospect of building a mutually beneficial partnership.

U.S. Naval forces in Europe and Africa have made a long term commitment to work as part of a larger United States Government effort to help improve maritime security and safety throughout this region. The purpose of my trip is to meet with your civilian and military leaders to begin building the foundations for a lasting maritime partnership with Mauritania. I think we’ve taken a great first step.

In order to continue learning about what’s important to Mauritania, we are also working with the American Embassy and your officials to have a U.S. Navy ship conduct a port visit here in the near future. 

On behalf of U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa and U.S. Sixth Fleet, I appreciate the time that we have been given and I look forward to building a closer relationship with Mauritania – a collaborative partnership that my good friend Admiral Peterman and the U.S. Coast Guard are also looking to enhance.

Vice Admiral John Stufflebeem
Deputy Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe

Nouakchott May 17, 2007.