Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has issued a stern warning against foreign interference in the internal affairs of African countries. In a message delivered by Prime Minister Aïmeur Benyounes at the third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow, Tebboune emphasized that such interference only serves to fuel tensions, deepen divisions, and prolong crises. This, he stressed, threatens regional and international peace and security, while hindering development and draining the resources of nations.
The Algerian president reaffirmed his country's commitment to upholding the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law, particularly with regards to respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations. He also emphasized the importance of settling disputes through peaceful means and the right of peoples to self-determination. Tebboune's remarks underscore Algeria's stance on the need for African countries to be free from external influence.
Tebboune highlighted that true stability cannot be imposed or imported from outside, but rather is a natural outcome of respecting national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and engaging in inclusive political dialogue led by the countries themselves. He emphasized that Africa, with its rich history of struggle against colonialism and exploitation, remains committed to the principle of self-determination in accordance with international legitimacy.
The Algerian president stressed that achieving lasting security and stability in Africa requires resolving the Western Sahara issue, which he described as the last remnant of colonialism on the continent. He expressed Algeria's unwavering support for the Sahrawi people's right to self-determination, in line with relevant international decisions and legitimacy. Tebboune commended the efforts of the UN Security Council, which led to the resumption of negotiations between the parties to the conflict earlier this year.
Tebboune praised Russia for its consistent and principled stance in support of the Sahrawi people's right to self-determination. He expressed appreciation for Russia's commitment to upholding the UN-led process and the efforts of the UN Special Envoy to find a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict. The Algerian president emphasized that a just and lasting solution can only be achieved through a consensual and political settlement that guarantees the Sahrawi people's inalienable right to self-determination.
On the topic of partnership, Tebboune reiterated Algeria's commitment to strengthening cooperation and partnership between Russia and African countries. He emphasized the importance of transforming shared political will into concrete projects and tangible results that promote economic and trade exchanges, encourage investment, and expand cooperation avenues. Tebboune also highlighted Algeria's efforts to promote South-South cooperation, knowledge sharing, and capacity building with African countries.
The Algerian president concluded by emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to address security challenges, including the fight against terrorism and violent extremism. He called for a combination of security measures and addressing the root causes of these phenomena. Tebboune also reiterated his call for reforming the global governance system to give Africa a rightful place in international decision-making, stressing the need for a fair and equitable representation of the continent in the UN Security Council.
Key points
- Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune warns against foreign interference in African countries' internal affairs.
- Tebboune emphasizes the need to resolve the Western Sahara issue for lasting security and stability in Africa.
- Algeria reaffirms its commitment to upholding the principles of the UN Charter and international law.