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Islam is the state religion in Mauritania. Islam is professed by more that 99% of the citizens and Arabic is the official language, Poular, Wolof, and Soninke are recognized as national languages. The government of Mauritania attempts to allow free primary education. In the early 1900's, only 55 percent of all eligible children were attending primary schools. Higher education is provided by the University of Nouakchott. Education is also provided by a college of public administration. The Mauritanian economy is predominantly pastoral, with mining and fishing increasing in importance.
Mauritania has a large saltwater fishing potential. The government has taken measures to protect its fishing areas. Mauritania also carries a plentiful supply of iron. Production of iron in the 1990's totaled at 10.5 million metric tons. Trade in Mauritania, mostly iron, totaled about 147 million dollars. Imports, such as food products, machinery, construction materials, and consumer goods, amounted to 149 million dollars. Mauritania owns plenty of transportation facilities. These include air routed and approximately 7500 kilometers of roads and tracks. As you have notice, Mauritania is doing pretty well with its economy and education.