Ahmed Attaf has reaffirmed Algeria’s commitment to strengthening African unity and cooperation, saying the country remains dedicated to advancing joint continental action under the leadership of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.
Speaking at an event marking Africa Day and the 63rd anniversary of the creation of the Organisation of African Unity, Algerian Foreign Minister described Africa as “the continent of a promising future” and stressed the importance of solidarity, sovereignty, and economic integration among African nations.
Addressing diplomats and officials at the Foreign Ministry headquarters, he stated Africa Day serves as a reminder of the continent’s shared political and civilizational vision rooted in liberation, state-building, and strengthening Africa’s role as an equal and active partner on the global stage.
Attaf said Algeria has adopted a renewed African policy reflected in the expansion of its diplomatic and economic engagement across the continent. He noted that Algeria has increased the number of embassies in African countries from 29 to 38 after opening nine new missions in recent years. Four African nations have also recently established embassies in Algeria, with four more preparing to do so.
He added that Air Algérie has significantly expanded its African network, increasing destinations to 12, with plans to raise the number to 20 in the near future.
On education and youth development, Attaf said Algeria had increased scholarships and training opportunities for African students from 5,000 to 8,000 annually, covering higher education, vocational, and technical training programmes.
The minister also highlighted Algeria’s support for continental economic integration through major infrastructure projects, including the Trans-Saharan Highway, the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, and plans to extend Algeria’s railway network into Sahel countries.
He said Algeria’s hosting of the fourth Intra-African Trade Fair generated contracts worth around $23 billion and contributed to boosting intra-African trade.
On regional and international issues, Attaf reiterated Algeria’s support for the right of peoples to self-determination, respect for state sovereignty, and political solutions to conflicts.
Regarding Western Sahara, he welcomed renewed negotiations between Morocco and the Polisario Front under the auspices of the United Nations and the United States, expressing hope for a lasting settlement that guarantees the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination.
Attaf also voiced Algeria’s support for UN-led efforts in Libya, called for dialogue and political reconciliation in Mali, and reaffirmed support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia and Sudan.
Turning to the Middle East, he condemned Israeli actions in Gaza and the West Bank, saying they undermine prospects for a Palestinian state.
He also welcomed recent efforts aimed at reinforcing the ceasefire in the Gulf region and praised Pakistan’s mediation role in promoting regional peace and stability.
