At the invitation of His Excellency President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, President of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, His Excellency General Abdourahamane Tiani, President of the Republic of Niger and Head of State, undertook a fraternal and working visit to Algeria on 15–16 February 2026. The visit reflected the shared resolve of both leaders to consolidate their historically rooted ties and to address regional challenges through coordinated and sovereign action.The two Heads of State reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to the foundational principles governing their bilateral relations: respect for national sovereignty and territorial integrity, non-interference in internal affairs, and effective solidarity in confronting common threats. They emphasized their conviction that the future of the Sahel must be shaped by the countries of the region themselves, through inclusive, locally driven solutions. Stressing their shared historical heritage, converging aspirations, and unity of destiny, they underscored that these elements bind together the nations of the Sahel-Saharan space. Both leaders reiterated their categorical rejection of foreign interference in the affairs of the African continent.In light of the continued threat posed by terrorism and transnational organized crime, the Presidents expressed profound concern and affirmed that the security of Algeria and Niger is indivisible. In a spirit of active solidarity, they agreed to reactivate without delay the bilateral mechanisms dedicated to strengthening border monitoring and enhancing coordination of counterterrorism strategies and responses to associated destabilizing activities.The two leaders resolved to maintain diplomatic relations at the highest level and to reinvigorate bilateral cooperation frameworks. They agreed to convene the Algerian-Nigerien High Joint Commission in Niamey before the end of the first half of 2026 and to institutionalize regular political and sectoral consultations.They further agreed to expedite the finalization and adoption of pending agreements governing cooperation across a wide range of sectors, including geological and mineral exploration; support for micro-enterprises and entrepreneurship; start-up development; postal services and telecommunications; digital transformation; culture; youth and sports; and comprehensive vocational training.Recognizing the substantial potential of their economic partnership, the Presidents committed to accelerating the completion of the Trans-Saharan Highway and other strategic infrastructure projects linking the two countries. Particular emphasis was placed on advancing the cross-border fiber-optic interconnection project and the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, as well as strengthening cooperation in hydrocarbons and renewable energy. Special attention will be devoted to rural electrification initiatives in border regions.To promote trade and investment, the two sides pledged to simplify customs and administrative procedures, establish structured border markets, and encourage joint projects in agriculture, health, and services. A joint feasibility study will be launched to examine the creation of an integrated cross-border cooperation zone aimed at stimulating local development. The completion of a commercial corridor designed to facilitate trade flows between the two countries will also be accorded priority.On regional and international issues of major concern, the Presidents expressed a convergence of views. They called for African-led political solutions to regional crises and advocated a restructuring of the regional security architecture. They further urged reform of the international financial system to ensure equitable access for African countries to climate and development financing. Reaffirming their solidarity with just causes in accordance with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions, they underscored their support for initiatives aimed at fostering stability and prosperity throughout the Sahel.Both leaders expressed satisfaction with what they described as a historic visit, opening a new phase of confident, ambitious, and forward-looking cooperation. They pledged to meet regularly to assess progress and to provide sustained momentum to the deepening partnership between their two brotherly peoples.At the conclusion of the visit, President General Abdourahamane Tiani conveyed his sincere appreciation to President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and to the Algerian people for the warm and fraternal welcome extended to him and his delegation. He extended a formal invitation to President Tebboune to undertake a State Visit to the Republic of Niger. The invitation was graciously accepted, with dates to be determined through diplomatic channels.Algiers, 16 February 2026
0 5 3 minutes read
