Algiers – Ahmed Attaf, Algeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, the National Community Abroad, and African Affairs, emphasized on Monday that Algeria, as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, has committed itself to addressing the issues before the council by upholding the principles of international law and legitimate international resolutions.
In a press conference reflecting on Algeria’s diplomatic achievements in 2024, Minister Attaf remarked on the significant and alarming shifts in international relations over the past three years. He pointed out three primary trends shaping this era:
- The Excessive Use of Force: A disturbing norm where stronger nations impose their will on weaker ones without recourse to justice or protection.
- Blatant Violations of International Law: An unchecked disregard for legality and international legitimacy as a means to assert dominance.
- The Erosion of Multilateral Organizations: The weakening of global entities like the United Nations, marking an age of self-interest, isolationism, and unilateralism.
Algeria’s Commitment at the Security Council
Minister Attaf underscored Algeria’s proactive role in contributing to Security Council matters based on clear directives from President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. These instructions shaped Algeria’s roadmap as a Council member and focused on four key pillars:
1. Advocating for Arab and African Voices
Algeria has consistently championed the concerns and aspirations of Arab and African states. Minister Attaf noted the broad support Algeria’s efforts garnered from Arab and African countries. These efforts were executed in full coordination with the Arab League and the African Union.
2. Supporting Just Causes
Algeria prioritized fair causes, particularly the Palestinian issue and the Western Sahara conflict. Algeria’s diplomacy played a vital role in:
- Keeping global attention on the Palestinian cause.
- Proposing resolutions to curb Israeli aggression in Gaza.
- Reintroducing the demand for Palestine’s full membership in the UN, aligning with the two-state solution framework for peace in the Middle East.
Regarding Western Sahara, Minister Attaf reiterated Algeria’s firm stance rooted in historical realities. He affirmed that the Sahrawi people have an inalienable right to self-determination, deeming Morocco’s presence in Western Sahara as a foreign occupation. He criticized proposals like Morocco’s autonomy plan as evasive tactics lacking legitimacy.
3. Promoting Unity within the Security Council
Algeria sought to bridge divides among permanent members of the Security Council and succeeded in strengthening the voice and influence of the ten elected members. Algeria also focused on reinforcing the African bloc within the Council.
4. Upholding International Law and UN Principles
Algeria remains committed to restoring the UN’s role in peaceful conflict resolution and promoting adherence to international law in all Council activities.
Continued Leadership and Collaboration
As Algeria assumes the Security Council presidency, it plans to prioritize issues affecting the Arab world and Africa. Minister Attaf highlighted Algeria’s achievements in regional cooperation, including establishing a trilateral consultation mechanism with Tunisia and Libya. This initiative, which has already yielded concrete projects, reflects Algeria’s commitment to addressing shared challenges.
Minister Attaf concluded by affirming Algeria’s dedication to fostering closer ties with neighboring Maghreb countries and supporting regional stability.
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Author: Nor-Eleslam
