Algerian Senate Responds to EU Over ANP Deployment in Niger

The Algerian Senate has responded to criticism from the European Union regarding the country's decision to deploy units of the National People's Army (ANP) to Niger. In a statement, the Senate condemned what it described as "immature and noisy" reactions from abroad, specifically from EU quarters. The Senate emphasized that Algeria's decision to send troops to Niger was made in accordance with the country's constitution and bilateral agreements with Niger.

The Senate's response comes after an EU spokesperson called for clarification on Algeria's decision to deploy troops to Niger. The Algerian Senate accused the EU of adopting a "barbaric" and "biased" approach, disregarding international law and sovereignty of nations. The Senate stated that the EU's actions were aimed at imposing its "dictats" on other countries, using various tactics, including criticism and attacks on sovereign states.

The Algerian Senate expressed regret that certain parties continued to consider the internal affairs of Algeria and Niger as their own domain. The Senate emphasized that Algeria and Niger were sovereign and independent countries, and their decisions regarding military cooperation should be respected. The Senate's statement described the EU's reaction as "regressive" and reminiscent of colonial-era policies.

According to the Algerian Senate, the country's parliament had approved the deployment of ANP units to Niger in accordance with Article 91 of the Constitution. The Senate stated that the deployment aimed to protect Algeria's energy interests and implement bilateral agreements with Niger. The Senate emphasized that Algeria had made a "responsible and independent" decision, unaffected by external pressures or blackmail.

The Algerian Senate rejected what it described as "recurring deviations" and "dangerous drifts" in the EU's approach towards Algeria and Niger. The Senate denounced the EU's attitude as "arrogant" and "disrespectful" towards international law. The Senate reiterated Algeria's commitment to its independent foreign policy and sovereignty.

The deployment of ANP units to Niger was approved unanimously by both chambers of the Algerian parliament. The Senate stated that the decision was made at the request of the Nigerien government and aimed to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two countries. The Senate emphasized that Algeria's actions were guided by its national interests and international commitments.

The Algerian Senate's response reflects the country's determination to assert its sovereignty and independence in foreign policy. The Senate's statement concluded by denouncing the EU's criticism as unjustified and unacceptable.

Key points

• Algeria's Senate rejects EU criticism of military deployment to Niger.
• The deployment aims to protect Algeria's energy interests and implement bilateral agreements with Niger.
• Algeria asserts its sovereignty and independence in foreign policy.