Algerian Minister of State, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ahmed Attaf, recently held talks with his counterparts from Zimbabwe, Somalia, and Benin. With Zimbabwe's Foreign Minister and International Trade Minister, Aimon Mwherweera, Attaf discussed the current state and future prospects of relations between Algeria and Zimbabwe. Both parties expressed satisfaction with the level of their relations, which are based on historical ties, solidarity, and common views on various regional and international issues.
During the meeting with Mwherweera, Attaf congratulated Zimbabwe on its election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the period 2027-2028. He expressed Algeria's willingness to share its experience and lessons learned from its tenure in the UN Security Council in 2024 and 2025. Mwherweera praised Algeria's efforts during its successful tenure, particularly in promoting peace and security in Africa. He also appreciated Algeria's continued support and solidarity, affirming that Algeria is a strategic partner for Zimbabwe.
The discussions with Mwherweera also touched on the issue of Western Sahara, with both parties reiterating their commitment to finding a solution based on the inalienable right of the Sahrawi people to self-determination, in accordance with UN and African Union principles and regulations. Attaf also met with Somalia's Foreign Minister and International Cooperation Minister, Abd Salam Abd Ali, to review various aspects of bilateral cooperation. Both ministers praised the positive dynamics in relations between the two countries and agreed on the importance of further enhancing and expanding cooperation to new areas.
The meeting with Abd Ali provided an opportunity for the two ministers to exchange views on several regional and international issues of common interest, including the situation in the Horn of Africa and developments in the Red Sea. They also discussed the latest developments in Somalia's internal situation, reaffirming their commitment to respecting Somalia's sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. Both parties rejected foreign interventions aimed at fueling tensions and instability in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea.
Attaf also met with Benin's Foreign Minister and Cooperation Minister, Aurelie Adam Soule Zoumarou, to discuss ways to ensure the implementation of the outcomes of his visit to Cotonou in July 2026. The two ministers expressed satisfaction with the improvement in bilateral cooperation, particularly in the fields of industrial investment and energy. They emphasized the importance of continuing this momentum and strengthening the dynamics in relations between the two countries, especially with the prospect of the fourth session of the joint committee.
On the continental level, Attaf congratulated Zoumarou on Benin's assumption of the presidency of the African Union's Peace and Security Council for September 2026. The two ministers agreed to continue consultations and coordination on peace and security issues in Africa, particularly in light of the upcoming 13th edition of the Oran Path, scheduled for December 2026. The meetings between Attaf and his counterparts demonstrated the commitment of Algeria to strengthening bilateral relations and promoting regional cooperation.
The talks between Attaf and his counterparts from Zimbabwe, Somalia, and Benin reflect Algeria's active role in promoting peace, security, and cooperation in Africa. The meetings highlighted the importance of continued dialogue and coordination on regional and international issues of common interest. Algeria's efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and promote regional cooperation are expected to continue, with a focus on enhancing economic, political, and security ties with its African partners.
Key points
- Algeria's Foreign Minister Attaf holds talks with counterparts from Zimbabwe, Somalia, and Benin to discuss bilateral relations and regional issues.
- Algeria and Zimbabwe agree to strengthen cooperation, with Algeria willing to share its experience in the UN Security Council.
- Algeria, Somalia, and Benin reaffirm their commitment to promoting peace, security, and cooperation in Africa.
