Algeria and Russia Discuss Strengthening Military Cooperation

On Monday, Algeria and Russia held discussions aimed at enhancing their military cooperation during a visit to Algiers by Nicholai Patrushev, Secretary of the Russian Security Council, according to the Algerian Defense Ministry. The Russian official, accompanied by a large delegation, met with Said Chanegriha, Chief of Staff of the Algerian army, to review the state of military ties between the two nations and explore ways to further strengthen them.

The Algerian Defense Ministry released a statement emphasizing the importance of this visit, which reflects “the firm and open willingness” of both countries to bolster their historic and strategic partnership, particularly in military cooperation. Chanegriha highlighted the long-standing collaboration between the two countries’ armed forces and their shared commitment to deepening these ties.

Patrushev echoed this sentiment, affirming that Russia is committed to “further strengthening” its relationship with Algeria.

During his visit, Patrushev also met with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, as shown on state television. Russia has been a key supplier of weapons to Algeria, the largest country in Africa by land area.

In addition, President Tebboune is scheduled to make a state visit to Russia in May, further underscoring the strong relationship between the two nations. Algiers and Moscow have long maintained privileged relations, with trade between them reaching $3 billion in 2021, despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.