Niger's Prime Minister, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, has praised Algeria for its significant role in supporting the country during difficult times. Speaking at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, Zeine highlighted Algeria's substantial investment in the exploitation of Niger's natural resources and its constant support for the country's defense system. This support has been crucial in helping Niger withstand sanctions and isolation imposed three years ago.
Zeine emphasized that Niger's resilience is also attributed to the country's people refusing to give up and the solidarity it has found within the Confederation of Sahel States. He noted that Niger has taken control of its land, subsoil, and voice, enabling it to stand strong. The Prime Minister also acknowledged the dynamic cooperation between Niger and Algeria in various sectors, including healthcare, education, energy, and agriculture.
Algeria and Niger have collaborated on several major projects, such as the tripartite gas pipeline and the trans-Saharan road. These projects aim to strengthen the economic ties between the two countries and promote regional development. On September 26, Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf met with his Nigerien counterpart, Bakary Yaou Sangaré, to discuss ways to enhance cooperation and partnership between the two nations.
The two ministers emphasized the importance of pursuing cooperation in areas such as hydrocarbons, energy, trade, agriculture, and infrastructure. Attaf reaffirmed Algeria's commitment to supporting Niger in its efforts to develop and commercialize its natural resources. He highlighted the strategic significance of projects like the trans-Saharan road and the Nigeria-Algeria gas pipeline, which demonstrate the depth of the historical ties between the two countries.
Sangaré expressed Niger's gratitude to Algeria for its support, expertise, and experience. He praised Algeria's capabilities in various fields, including energy, infrastructure, education, and healthcare. The two countries have a long history of cooperation, and their relationship has been strengthened by recent developments, including Algeria's decision to provide military aid to Niger.
In August, Algeria delivered a donation of military equipment to Niger, including four helicopters, ammunition, and logistical support. This move was aimed at bolstering the bilateral strategic cooperation between the two countries in the military domain. Earlier, Algeria deployed two patrols of combat aircraft to Niamey to support the Nigerien army in the face of a potential destabilization attempt.
Economically, the relations between Algeria and Niger have been marked by concrete actions, including the construction of a power plant in Niamey and the launch of development work on the Kafra oil block. These projects demonstrate Algeria's commitment to supporting Niger's development and economic growth. The two countries continue to strengthen their ties, with a focus on promoting regional stability and cooperation.
Key points
- Algeria has provided significant support to Niger, including substantial investment in natural resources and constant defense support.
- The two countries have collaborated on major projects, such as the tripartite gas pipeline and the trans-Saharan road.
- Algeria has also provided military aid to Niger, including helicopters, ammunition, and logistical support.
