Neeraj Agrawal appointed as India’s next ambassador to Mauritania

Neeraj Agrawal, a seasoned Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, is expected to take up his post in Nouakchott, the capital of Mauritania, in the coming months.

Post Published By: Sujata Biswal

Updated : 18 November 2025, 5:38 PM IST

Neeraj Agrawal to lead India’s diplomatic mission in Mauritania

New Delhi: The Government of India has appointed Neeraj Agrawal as its next Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Mauritania.

Neeraj Agrawal, a seasoned Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, is expected to take up his post in Nouakchott, the capital of Mauritania, in the coming months.

His diplomatic credentials and experience are seen as key in strengthening cooperation across trade, cultural exchanges, and foreign office consultations.

This decision comes at a time when India and Mauritania have been enhancing cooperation on multiple fronts.

Earlier, during President Droupadi Murmu’s historic visit to Mauritania, both nations signed several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), including agreements on visa exemptions, cultural exchange programmes, and enhanced diplomatic consultations.

India opened its resident embassy in Nouakchott recently, and the first resident ambassador, Naresh Kumar, presented his credentials in May 2024.

Agrawal’s new role is expected to build on this foundation and further strengthen India’s presence and influence in the region.

Experts say Agrawal’s appointment reflects India’s broader strategy to deepen its footprint in Africa, emphasizing not just economic ties but also soft diplomacy and cultural engagement.