Minister of Mujahideen and Rights Holders, Abdelmalek Tachrifet, stated yesterday that Algeria has always been a stronghold for independent decision-making and a symbol of sovereignty. He noted that Algerians, who reclaimed their land and homeland through sacrifice, recovered and nationalized their resources based on knowledge and determination.
During a historical seminar organized by the ministry at the National Museum of the Mujahideen, marking the dual anniversary of the founding of the General Union of Algerian Workers and the nationalization of hydrocarbons, Tachrifet said that Algeria continues to write its history with confidence. He emphasized that sovereign decision-making is the sole guarantor of the nation’s desired development, remaining faithful to the sacred bond with the martyrs.
The Minister pointed out that under the leadership of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, Algeria is moving steadily on its path, faithful to principles of sovereignty and confident in the potential of its citizens and ambitious youth. He highlighted major strategic achievements such as the Gara Djebilet mine, the preparations for drilling at the lead and zinc mine in Oued Amizour, and the progress of the integrated phosphate project in Bled El Hadba.
Tachrifet explained that these massive investment projects and the accompanying infrastructure development represent promising prospects that will strengthen the national economy and solidify Algeria’s leading role in international markets. He noted that the country is moving beyond just extracting raw materials toward establishing national industries that provide added value through sovereign decisions and a forward-looking vision.
Noureddine Bouderba, representing the General Union of Algerian Workers, spoke on the union’s contribution to the revolution and the nationalization of hydrocarbons. He stated that the union was a vital arm of the revolution and played a pivotal role in internationalizing the Algerian cause at the United Nations through historic strikes, proving the solidarity of the working class with the national liberation movement.
He further noted that the union was a primary driver in building the state, continuing its struggle after independence by challenging foreign companies that expected Algerian workers to fail in managing energy facilities. Instead, Algerians ensured continuous production and established economic sovereignty, describing February 24, 1971, as an “economic November 1st.”
Mujahid Mohamed Debbah, a former member of the Ministry of Armaments and General Communications (MALG), recalled the role of Algerian intelligence in the nationalization process. He cited a famous economic espionage operation involving the “Rachid Thabeti” file, which successfully gathered intelligence from French oil company circles in Paris. This information was delivered to President Houari Boumediene, who then sought to diversify partnerships in the oil fields.
Debbah mentioned that the file, which contained details of the internal workings of French companies, gave Algeria a position of strength during negotiations, eventually leading to the historic declaration to nationalize hydrocarbons.
DzWatch.
