Date Published: Saturday, December 21, 2024
Category: Algeria
Algiers – Algerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Attaf, emphasized on Saturday that Algeria and Cameroon are committed to advocating for a fairer, more equitable, and balanced international order. This vision includes amplifying Africa’s voice and enhancing its role as a respected and reliable global partner.
Speaking at a press conference following his meeting with Cameroonian Minister of Foreign Relations, Lejeune Mbella Mbella, Minister Attaf highlighted that Algeria, as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, and Cameroon, presiding over the UN General Assembly, are actively championing a more just world system.
He stated:
“Both nations are working towards an international order where Africa has its rightful place, contributing meaningfully to addressing regional and global challenges.”
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Minister Attaf lauded the historical ties between Algeria and Cameroon, which have endured for over six decades. These relations, rooted in cooperation and solidarity, have recently seen renewed dynamism in defense, training, trade, and air transport. He noted the resumption of direct flights between Algiers and Douala since October 2023 as a significant step forward.
The meeting resulted in agreements to deepen collaboration in three key areas:
- Legal Framework Enhancement:
Accelerating negotiations on over seven draft agreements to diversify bilateral partnerships. One notable agreement signed was the mutual visa exemption for diplomatic and official passport holders. - Institutional Cooperation Mechanisms:
Organizing the next session of the Joint Governmental Committee, activating political consultation mechanisms, and energizing the Algerian-Cameroonian Business Council established in January 2023. - Setting Priorities for Collaboration:
Focusing on traditional sectors such as military cooperation, higher education, vocational training, and inter-regional transportation while expanding into critical areas like energy, mining, pharmaceutical manufacturing, agriculture, and fisheries.
Regional and Global Cooperation
Minister Attaf highlighted the importance of maintaining close consultations between Algeria and Cameroon on regional and international matters. Both nations are committed to promoting peace, stability, and development in Africa.
He stressed the need for strengthening African unity and enhancing the African Union’s role to shield the continent from global political polarizations. At the international level, Algeria and Cameroon aim to influence the establishment of a fairer global order through their respective roles in the UN.
Cameroonian Perspective
Minister Lejeune Mbella Mbella described the meeting as a “new chapter” in Algerian-Cameroonian relations, emphasizing their deep-rooted and dynamic partnership spanning politics, diplomacy, and economics.
He pointed to the agreements signed between the two nations, such as the air transport cooperation between Algerian Airlines and Cameroonian Airlines, which he believes will create promising opportunities for economic operators in both countries.
The Cameroonian minister also underscored the significance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), noting that Algeria, as Africa’s third-largest economy, can play a pivotal role in supporting Cameroon’s economic development.
He concluded by commending Algeria’s contributions to higher education, highlighting Cameroonian students benefiting from Algerian university programs across various disciplines.
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Author: Nor-Eleslam
