China gives fund to support projects in Mauritania

China has given Mauritania financial support of over 260 million U.S. dollars to support various development projects, an official source has said.

An agreement in this regard was signed on Tuesday in Nouakchott between Mauritania's Economic Affairs Minister Sidi Ould Tah and the Chinese ambassador to Mauritania, Chen Gonglai. According to the terms of the agreement, the financial support is comprised of a non-refundable grant of about 129 million dollars and an interest free loan of about 131 million dollars.

On the occasion of the signing of the agreement, the Mauritanian minister pointed out that "China had contributed to the development of various sectors in the country including agriculture, fisheries and basic infrastructure."

Ould Tah added the relation between China and Mauritania was characterized by mutual respect and reciprocal interests.

He expressed his gratitude to the Chinese people and government "for the continuous support that they have never ceased to accord to Mauritania."

On his part, the Chinese ambassador indicated that "the financial support was a demonstration once more, of the firm desire by the Chinese government to support Mauritania and contribute to the country's sustainable development."

He added China paid special attention to the cooperation with Mauritania, particularly for the sectors that will enable poor citizens to access basic services.

The ambassador recalled that "since 1967, China has funded over 40 different projects in the country, with the most prominent ones being the Friendship port, the Youth and Culture center, the water supply project in Nouakchott, the International Conference Center, the Olympic stadium and the Friendship hospital."