Mauritania and Senegal to Create Transboundary Marine Protected Area

Mauritania and Senegal have begun work on establishing a transboundary marine protected area, Senegal's Marine Protected Areas Directorate announced on August 29 following a meeting with Mauritanian counterparts.

"This meeting was the result of both countries' desire to strengthen cooperation for the management of a shared maritime space characterized by exceptional biodiversity and abundant fish resources," the statement from Senegal's Marine Protected Areas Directorate said.

On August 27–28, representatives from Mauritania and Senegal held an interstate consultative seminar in Dakar dedicated to developing the concept of a future transboundary marine protected area (TMPA).

Participants discussed the current state of the water area, existing cooperation mechanisms, and scientific data on the ecosystem and bioresources. During the work, the sides agreed on the project budget and defined criteria for setting priorities in managing the area.

"Through group work, criteria were defined to establish priorities in nature conservation, as well as to identify management and regulatory challenges. ... As a result of the discussions, a roadmap with a one-year budget was developed," the statement noted.

In January, Senegal and Mauritania produced their first batch of liquefied natural gas (LNG) offshore as part of the joint Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) project.