The Islamic Republic of Mauritania is a country located in West Africa, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, Mali to the east and south, and Western Sahara to the north. It has a diverse landscape that includes deserts, savannas, and coastal areas. The capital city is Nouakchott, which serves as the political and economic center of the nation. Mauritania has a population of around 4.5 million people, with Arabic being the official language. The country is known for its rich cultural heritage, influenced by Berber, Arab, and African traditions. The economy is primarily based on agriculture, fishing, and mining, particularly iron ore.