During the National U.S.–Arab Chamber of Commerce Ambassador of the Year Award Luncheon, held at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Washington, D.C., on December 16, 2025, Jan Du Plain, CEO of Du Plain Global Enterprises, delivered remarks recognizing Her Excellency Cissé Mint Cheikh Ould Boide, Ambassador of Mauritania to the United States, for her leadership in cultural diplomacy and her role in strengthening Mauritania’s presence within Washington’s international community.
Du Plain is a well-known figure in Washington’s diplomatic and cultural landscape, with decades of experience working alongside embassies, cultural institutions, and international partners. Through major public diplomacy platforms, she has helped connect diplomatic missions with American and global audiences, using culture as a practical tool for engagement beyond formal protocol.
In her remarks, Du Plain noted that the National U.S.–Arab Chamber of Commerce had, for the third consecutive year, selected a woman as Ambassador of the Year. The previous honoree was Tunisia’s Ambassador Hanène Tajouri Bessassi. This year’s recognition, she said, belonged to Mauritania’s envoy.
“These two women were not only best friends,” Du Plain said. “They were bright lights on the Washington diplomatic scene.”
Du Plain described Ambassador Boide as a leader whose presence reshapes how people engage with one another. “She doesn’t just hold office,” she said. “She changes the atmosphere.” She referred to such figures as “light bearers,” adding that the award honored one of the most visible examples of that leadership.
As Mauritania’s first female ambassador to the United States, Ambassador Boide arrived in Washington with extensive experience in public service and international representation. Du Plain stressed that her appointment was grounded in preparation and accomplishment. “She did not arrive here unprepared,” she said. “She came accomplished, and ready to raise the game for Mauritania.”
Recalling their first meeting, Du Plain spoke of an immediate sense of connection. “She walks into a room and instantly connects, heart to heart,” she said. That personal warmth, she explained, has played a central role in introducing Mauritania to audiences who may not have been familiar with the country. “She speaks about her country with such passion, pride, and poetry that by the time she finishes, you’ve packed your bags and are ready to go.”
Du Plain devoted particular attention to Ambassador Boide’s use of cultural diplomacy. She noted that the ambassador consistently places culture at the center of engagement, using conversation, cuisine, and shared experience to build understanding. Through embassy programs and large public initiatives, Ambassador Boide has presented Mauritanian crafts, markets, and culinary traditions to Washington’s international audience.
“Cultural diplomacy happens one conversation at a time,” Du Plain said, adding that food often deepens those exchanges.
She also highlighted Ambassador Boide’s reliability and presence across Washington’s diplomatic and cultural calendar. “She never hesitates. She always says yes. She always shows up,” Du Plain said, describing her as a steady supporter of fellow women ambassadors and a committed member of the international community.
Reflecting on Ambassador Boide’s four years in Washington, Du Plain spoke directly about the level of dedication she has observed. “I have watched Ambassador Cissé put her mind, body, and soul into representing her country,” she said, noting the consistency and discipline that have defined her service.
As the National U.S.–Arab Chamber of Commerce presented the Ambassador of the Year Award, Du Plain concluded with a succinct assessment of Ambassador Boide’s impact. “You don’t just represent Mauritania in Washington,” she said. “You make it shine around the world.”
