Algerian Minister of State, Abdelkader Attaf, has stressed that good neighborliness is a fundamental condition for achieving collective security in Africa. In a speech, Attaf noted that the continent is facing growing threats from terrorism, organized crime, and the flow of illicit weapons and funds. He emphasized the need for coordinated regional action, based on dialogue, consultation, and security cooperation, while respecting the sovereignty and independence of states.
Attaf highlighted Algeria's priority of combating terrorism financing and drying up its sources, particularly by countering the exploitation of advanced technologies for terrorist purposes. He recalled the "Algeria Guiding Principles" adopted by the UN Security Council in January 2025, which provide a framework for enhancing international efforts in this area. The minister also praised President Abdelmadjid Tebboune's role as champion of the African Union in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism.
According to Attaf, Algeria's approach is based on the conviction that a sustainable security and stability can only be achieved if military and security responses are combined with development, reconciliation, and the strengthening of state institutions. He cited Algeria's experience in the Sahel region, which is based on supporting dialogue, reconciliation, and cooperation on security and border issues, as well as combating terrorism and organized crime.
The minister reviewed several major projects aimed at promoting regional integration and development, including the Trans-Saharan Highway, the optical fiber network, and the Nigeria-Algeria gas pipeline. These projects, he said, have opened up new economic prospects and supported the foundations of sustainable security. Attaf emphasized the importance of African ownership and leadership in security responses.
Attaf called for a shift from national responses to coordinated regional action, and from crisis management to prevention. He reiterated Algeria's conviction that African security is indivisible and that good neighborliness, solidarity, development, and reconciliation are essential pillars for sustainable peace and security. The minister's speech reflects Algeria's commitment to promoting stability and security in Africa.
The Algerian government has been actively engaged in regional and international efforts to combat terrorism and promote security cooperation. Attaf's speech highlights the country's commitment to addressing the root causes of insecurity, including poverty, unemployment, and social exclusion. By promoting development and regional integration, Algeria aims to reduce the appeal of extremist groups and promote sustainable security.
The emphasis on good neighborliness and regional cooperation reflects a broader shift in international approaches to security, from a focus on national interests to a more holistic understanding of security as a collective good. As Africa continues to face growing security challenges, Attaf's speech underscores the importance of cooperation, dialogue, and development in achieving sustainable peace and stability on the continent.
Key points
- Good neighborliness is a fundamental condition for achieving collective security in Africa.
- Algeria prioritizes combating terrorism financing and drying up its sources.
- Sustainable security and stability require a combination of security responses, development, reconciliation, and the strengthening of state institutions.
