Mauritania has recalled its ambassador to Senegal for consultations following remarks by former Senegalese Foreign Minister Cheikh Tidiane Gadio about the Western Sahara conflict, according to Mauritanian diplomatic sources. The move signals a diplomatic rift between the two neighboring countries.
Gadio, in a recent interview, suggested that Senegal's historical ties with Morocco could influence its stance on the Sahara issue, a statement that Mauritanian officials deemed inappropriate. The Mauritanian Foreign Ministry expressed displeasure, emphasizing that such comments could undermine bilateral relations.
Morocco, which claims sovereignty over Western Sahara, has sought to downplay the incident. Moroccan diplomats have been in contact with Senegalese and Mauritanian officials to ease tensions, stressing the importance of regional stability and cooperation.
The dispute highlights the sensitivity of the Western Sahara issue in the region, where Morocco's position is supported by some African nations, while others back the Polisario Front's push for independence. Senegal has historically maintained a balanced approach, but Gadio's remarks have stirred controversy.
As of July 31, 2026, neither Senegal nor Mauritania has issued an official statement confirming the recall, but diplomatic sources indicate that efforts are underway to resolve the misunderstanding quietly.
