Algiers, November 27, 2025 – Algeria today hosted the 13th Council of Defense Ministers Meeting and the 14th Chiefs of Staff Committee Meeting for member states of the North Africa Regional Capability (NARC). The meetings took place at the National Army Club in Beni Messous, Algiers.
NARC comprises Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Mauritania, and the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic. These high-level discussions saw the participation of Major General Mohamed Salah Benbicha, Secretary General of the Ministry of National Defense, representing the Minister of National Defense. Also present was Major General, Head of the Department of Use and Preparation for the General Staff of the People’s National Army, representing the Chief of Staff of the People’s National Army.
A representative from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Community Abroad and African Affairs also attended. Furthermore, representatives from the Defense Ministers and Chiefs of Staff of the NARC member states were present, along with Ahmed Ahmida Tajouri, Executive Secretary of the North Africa Regional Capability, and Brigadier General Mohamed Gouma Al-Shaibani, Head of the Planning Element of this regional mechanism.
The agenda for these meetings centered on evaluating the achievements of the mechanism throughout 2025 and exploring ways to enhance its components. The primary goal is to strengthen coordination among member states in addressing the threats to the security and stability of the region. Discussions focused on collaborative strategies to combat terrorism, cross-border crime, and other security challenges facing North Africa.
The meetings concluded with the signing of the final report for the 13th Council of Defense Ministers Meeting and the 14th Chiefs of Staff Committee Meeting for NARC member states. This report outlines the key decisions and recommendations made during the summit, paving the way for enhanced regional security cooperation in the coming year.
