Algiers, December 2, 2025 – Minister of Labour, Employment, and Social Security, Abdelhak Saihi, today met with Lalini Veerassamy, the representative of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Algeria, at the ministry headquarters. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and exploring avenues to manage irregular migration.
Veerassamy expressed her appreciation for the existing level of cooperation between Algeria and the IOM. She particularly commended Algeria’s facilitation of IOM activities, especially in the areas of training and cooperation aimed at assisting migrants. She emphasized that the meeting was part of a broader effort to expand consultations and exchange views on the phenomenon of irregular migration, seeking to capitalize on all available opportunities to strengthen partnerships in this crucial area.
Minister Saihi affirmed his ministry’s readiness to deepen cooperation with the IOM by scheduling working sessions involving experts from both sides to discuss matters of mutual interest. The issue of irregular migration was highlighted as a top priority. He also emphasized the ministry’s commitment to exploring ways to encourage the voluntary return of irregular migrants to their countries of origin, in consultation with the IOM in Algeria and in agreement with the relevant countries.
During the discussions, both parties considered several practical proposals aimed at establishing a framework for controlling irregular migration. This included the potential signing of cooperation agreements with the countries concerned. They also looked ahead to expanding cooperation in 2026.
DZWatch will continue to monitor developments on this important issue.
