Below is an extract from the Q&A Press Session, 28/02/2013 published by France Diplomatie:

Question- What do you think of the initiatives led by activists from IRA (Initiative for the Resurgence of the Abolitionist movement) against slavery in Mauritania?

Answer- France is firmly committed in the struggle against all forms of slavery. We salute the commitment of the “IRA Mauritania” organization, which is the founder of the “Caravan against slavery and for freedom” initiative.

France calls upon Mauritania to respect the international conventions which it ratified, especially the International Covenant for Political and Civil Rights and the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.

France- Ministry of Foreign Affairs