PressBridge

Relations between Mauritania and Mali are under increasing tension with recent incidents at the border. 
The most recent border incident between the two countries dates back to the period of Eid el-Fitr when Malian troops reportedly entered the Mauritanian village of Madallah, leading to injuries to civilians and controversial arrests. Meanwhile, allegations of support for terrorist and separatist groups are emerging on the Malian side. Which highlights the complex security challenges that prevail along the 2,237 km shared border. 
The events sparked outrage in both countries and led to calls for caution for civilians living along the border. 
At the same time, accusations were made by certain opinion in Mali against Mauritania, accusing it of actively supporting terrorist and separatist groups. Allegations that Nouakchott provided shelter and care to these elements were categorically rejected by the Mauritanian authorities, who described them as false and misleading. 
The situation is complicated by the difficulties encountered by nationals of the two countries along the common border. There are reports of harassment of civilians. 
These incidents prompted a Malian ministerial delegation, led by Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop and Defense Minister Sadio Camara, to travel to Mauritania to try to defuse the situation.