Algerian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ahmed Attaf met with South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola on September 25, 2026. The meeting allowed the two officials to review the state of historical relations between their countries and explore opportunities for growth. According to a statement from the Algerian Foreign Ministry, the discussions were guided by the directives of Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.
The talks enabled the ministers to reaffirm their commitment to implementing the outcomes and pledges from President Ramaphosa's state visit to Algeria and the seventh session of the bilateral High Commission for Cooperation in December 2024. They agreed to hold a ministerial meeting soon to prepare for the next session of this mechanism. This move aims to strengthen and elevate cooperation between the two nations across various fields.
Attaf and Lamola also examined prospects for enhancing and deepening bilateral cooperation in the economic sphere, particularly in mining, hydrocarbons, and agriculture. They expressed satisfaction with the completion of the process for establishing a joint trade and investment commission. This commission is expected to contribute to advancing the economic partnership between Algeria and South Africa.
The two ministers reviewed the current state of relations between their countries and explored ways to boost cooperation. They discussed the implementation of agreements and memoranda of understanding signed between the two nations. Algeria and South Africa have a long history of cooperation, and the meeting provided an opportunity for the ministers to identify areas for further collaboration.
On regional and international issues, the ministers reiterated their commitment to upholding the right of the Sahrawi people to self-determination, in line with international legitimacy and UN resolutions. This issue remains a key point of discussion between Algeria and South Africa, reflecting their shared stance on the matter.
The meeting between Attaf and Lamola demonstrates the ongoing efforts of Algeria and South Africa to strengthen their bilateral relations. By exploring opportunities for economic cooperation and reaffirming their support for the Sahrawi people's right to self-determination, the two nations aim to enhance their partnership and contribute to regional stability.
The discussions between the Algerian and South African ministers highlight the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation between nations in the region. As Algeria and South Africa move forward, their commitment to economic cooperation and support for self-determination will likely remain key aspects of their bilateral relationship.
Key points
- Algeria and South Africa reaffirm their support for the Sahrawi people's right to self-determination.
- The two nations agree to hold a ministerial meeting to prepare for the next session of the bilateral High Commission for Cooperation.
- Algeria and South Africa aim to enhance economic cooperation, particularly in mining, hydrocarbons, and agriculture.
