A delegation of 42 citizens from Kansas City and Lawrence, in the US states of Missouri and Kansas, arrived in Algiers on November 9, 2026, for a week-long official visit. The group, which includes the mayor of Lawrence, was welcomed at Algiers International Airport by Kamel Sidi Saïd, advisor to the President of the Republic, and Sports Minister Walid Sadi. This visit aims to implement the instructions of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune to strengthen bilateral relations.
The visit is a follow-up to a meeting of the Council of Ministers, where President Tebboune requested the preparation of a twinning agreement between one of the two American cities and Tipasa. This agreement acknowledges the warm welcome given to Algerian supporters in the US and highlights the importance of bilateral relations. The delegation's visit is an opportunity to discover Algerian culture and explore its historical sites.
Lawrence Mayor Brad Finkeldei expressed his gratitude for the invitation, describing it as a "formidable experience" that will help strengthen ties between the Algerian and American people. He stated that this visit builds on the friendship established between Algerians and the people of Lawrence. Finkeldei is eager to learn more about Algeria's history and reconnect with his Algerian friends.
Meghan Bardwell, a police inspector from Kansas City, also part of the delegation, praised the invitation extended by President Tebboune. She described it as a "great honor" to be part of the delegation and an opportunity to discover Algerian culture. Bardwell has appeared in several videos celebrating with Algerian national team supporters during the World Cup.
After their arrival, the delegation was received at the airport's VIP lounge and then headed to the Sheraton hotel. An exhibition and sale of local handicrafts was inaugurated at the hotel, which will remain open throughout their stay. The visitors also took a sea excursion from El Djamila port to the Marina d'Alger port.
The delegation's program includes a visit to Tipasa, where they will meet with local authorities to discuss decentralized cooperation prospects with Lawrence. The official component of the delegation will be received at the wilaya headquarters, while the other participants will visit the Royal Mausoleum of Mauritania.
The visit is expected to strengthen the bonds of friendship between Algeria and the US, particularly between the cities of Lawrence and Tipasa. The delegation's visit is a testament to the importance of bilateral relations and cultural exchange between the two nations. Key points include the twinning agreement between Lawrence and Tipasa, the delegation's cultural and historical exploration of Algeria, and the strengthening of Algerian-American ties.
Key points
- The visit aims to implement President Abdelmadjid Tebboune's instructions to strengthen bilateral relations between Algeria and the US.
- A twinning agreement between Lawrence and Tipasa is being prepared to acknowledge the warm welcome given to Algerian supporters in the US.
- The delegation's visit includes a cultural and historical exploration of Algeria, with stops in Algiers and Tipasa.
