The Minister of Interior, Local Authorities, and Transport, Saïd Saïoud, affirmed Algeria’s continued efforts to strengthen joint Arab action and its commitment to contributing to various initiatives that support security and stability. During his participation in the 43rd session of the Council of Arab Interior Ministers via video conference on Wednesday, Saïoud highlighted Algeria’s dedication to joint Arab action, describing it as indispensable in the current circumstances.
Saïoud emphasized Algeria’s commitment to contributing positively to Arab and international initiatives that support security and stability, ensuring sustainable development and safety for the Arab region. He noted that Algeria, based on its firm principles, stresses the importance of respecting state sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, and adopting dialogue as a means to settle disputes. This approach aims to shield the region from the repercussions of conflicts and enhance opportunities for security and stability for its people.
The minister expressed Algeria’s solidarity with brotherly Arab countries affected by military attacks, which he described as unjustified and unacceptable, within the context of the serious military escalation in the Middle East. He conveyed Algeria’s condolences to the families of the victims and expressed hope that all affected nations would overcome the catastrophic material losses they have suffered.
He further noted that President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has consistently expressed this position to the leaders of Arab countries affected by this escalation. This stance, he added, transcends temporary considerations and is part of a deep-rooted principled commitment, highlighting the President’s dedication to maintaining regular communication with his Arab counterparts during this critical stage in the history of the Middle East and the Arab world.
Regarding the current situation, the minister stated that Algeria is following the rising tensions in the Middle East with great concern, given their direct impact on regional security and stability, as well as their repercussions on the global and Arab economies. He pointed to disruptions in energy markets, supply chain imbalances, and increasing economic and social pressures affecting Arab citizens.
Saïoud warned that these conditions provide a favorable environment for the escalation of security threats, the activities of terrorist groups, and transnational criminal organizations. He noted the growing overlap between these groups, particularly with the rise of drug trafficking, especially synthetic drugs, alongside illegal migration and cybercrime.
The minister also confirmed Algeria’s support for various initiatives aimed at developing joint Arab action, including the second phase of the Arab Strategy for Combating Terrorism. He stressed the necessity of continuously adapting implementation mechanisms and strengthening rigor in combating the financing of terrorism, particularly by firmly addressing drug trafficking and limiting its spread.
In his concluding remarks, Saïoud stated that despite the magnitude of the challenges facing the Arab world today, they serve as an additional incentive to unify efforts and strengthen Arab solidarity. This, he said, is essential for building a more integrated and effective Arab security system capable of responding to the requirements of the current stage and safeguarding the interests of Arab nations and their peoples.
