On September 24, 2026, Algerian Ambassador Ammar Hadjar met with Benin's Minister Delegate for National Defense, Gildas Agonkan, to offer his country's expertise in combating asymmetric threats. This offer is part of a series of recent meetings between Benin and foreign military partners. The two countries have a long-standing diplomatic relationship dating back to Benin's independence.
The Algerian ambassador proposed sharing operational expertise with the Beninese military, focusing on training and capacity building. This expertise is rooted in Algeria's experience fighting armed groups during its civil war in the 1990s. Benin's Minister Delegate for National Defense expressed interest in Algeria's military doctrine and security resilience, seeking a comprehensive and sustainable partnership.
The meeting between the Algerian ambassador and the Beninese minister is part of a broader effort by Benin to strengthen its military capabilities. In late August, the Chief of Staff of the Beninese Armed Forces, General Fructueux Gbaguidi, met with US officials at the Pentagon. Earlier in September, Benin sought support from the United Arab Emirates in terms of training and equipment.
The offer from Algeria expands the list of countries Benin is engaging with on military cooperation. While Benin's military relationships with France, the US, and Belgium are more established, the country is exploring new partnerships to enhance its defense capabilities. No date has been set for signing a potential agreement between the two countries.
Algeria's proposal is seen as an opportunity for Benin to tap into its experience in counter-terrorism and asymmetric threat mitigation. The two countries have a long history of diplomatic relations, and this offer is expected to strengthen their military cooperation. Benin's efforts to bolster its military capabilities come amid growing security concerns in the region.
The Beninese minister expressed interest in concluding framework agreements on defense policy and military interoperability with Algeria. Such agreements would provide a foundation for long-term cooperation between the two countries. Algeria's willingness to share its expertise and experience is seen as a positive development in the region.
The military cooperation between Algeria and Benin is expected to contribute to regional security and stability. The offer from Algeria is one of several recent initiatives aimed at strengthening Benin's defense capabilities. The country is taking a proactive approach to addressing security challenges, and this cooperation with Algeria is seen as a positive step forward.
Key points
- Algeria offers to share its military expertise with Benin to enhance its defense capabilities against asymmetric threats.
- The two countries have a long-standing diplomatic relationship dating back to Benin's independence.
- The military cooperation between Algeria and Benin is expected to contribute to regional security and stability.
