Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has reaffirmed that the security and stability of the African continent are inextricably linked to the resolution of the Western Sahara issue, the last decolonization process in Africa yet to be completed. At the third Russia-Africa summit in Moscow, Tebboune praised Russia's consistent stance in support of the Sahrawi people's right to self-determination and its backing of the UN-led process.
Tebboune's remarks were delivered through a speech read by Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb at the summit. He stressed that eradicating the remnants of colonialism in Africa is crucial to establishing lasting peace on the continent. The Algerian president highlighted that the continent's history of struggles against colonialism and exploitation has instilled a strong attachment to the principles of self-determination and respect for international law.
The Algerian president commended the efforts of the UN Security Council, which led to the resumption of negotiations between the parties to the conflict earlier this year, under UN auspices. He expressed Algeria's appreciation for Russia's consistent support of the Sahrawi people's right to self-determination and its commitment to backing the UN process and the efforts of the UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy.
Tebboune emphasized that the goal is to achieve a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political settlement, in line with the UN Charter and relevant Security Council resolutions. He reiterated Algeria's support for this process and insisted that a just and lasting solution cannot be conceived without a consensual political settlement that guarantees the Sahrawi people's right to self-determination.
The Algerian president also addressed the broader security challenges facing the continent, warning against foreign interference in the internal affairs of African states. He argued that such interference, regardless of its pretext, tends to fuel tensions, exacerbate divisions, and prolong crises, at the expense of peace, security, and development.
Tebboune emphasized that genuine stability cannot be imported or imposed by force, but rather relies on respect for state sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as inclusive political dialogue led by the people themselves. He also underscored that security and stability in Africa are inextricably linked to socio-economic development and that these two dimensions must advance together to guarantee lasting peace on the continent.
The Algerian president's statement reflects the country's commitment to supporting the Sahrawi people's quest for self-determination and its advocacy for a peaceful and lasting resolution to the Western Sahara conflict. His remarks also highlight the importance of African-led solutions to the continent's security challenges and the need for international cooperation to address these issues.
Key points
- Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune calls for an end to Western Sahara colonization at Russia-Africa summit
- Tebboune emphasizes need for African-led solutions to continent's security challenges
- Algeria supports Sahrawi people's right to self-determination and UN-led process
