afrol News, 20 April - Officials of the United States say with the emergence of democracy in Mauritania, their government is more than willing to forge closer cooperation with the desert Western African country.

The US Deputy Secretary of State - John Negroponte – spills the beans while congratulating the country’s newly inaugurated democratic President – Sidi Ould Cheik Abdallahi.

Dressed in a brown suit, the 69-year-old former prisoner and Minister held the Quran and swore commitment to “faithfully and impartially undertake the duties, uphold the constitution as well as refrain from any initiative to change the clauses regarding the Presidential mandate.

President Abdallahi, who is also an economist, sailed through the leadership ladder last month when he won the final round of polls. He took over power from Col. Ely Val, who overthrew the country’s former dictator, President Taya, from power in August 2005. The military command headed by Col. Vall ruled the country for 19 months before transferring power in a democratic way.

Mr Abdallahi expresses his government’s commitment to respect political opposition, bridge racial and social gap, fight poverty and official corruption. He also promised to pave way for reforms.

He says the relations with Israel would be reviewed and debated but that his country remains the supporter of the Palestinians’ struggle to become free in their own land.
Mauritania’s successful transition to democracy has inspired Washington officials, which is why they are expanding they are deepening cooperation with the new government on health, education and security.

Mr Negroponte commends the junta for relinquishing power to a civilian elected President – which turned Mauritania to an undisputable model of peaceful ending to a monolithic era.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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