General Dagfinn Tandberg Anderson, Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), has expressed strong admiration for Algeria’s pivotal role as a cornerstone of regional stability, pledging to deepen bilateral counter-terrorism cooperation during a high-level visit to Algiers.
Speaking exclusively to dzwatch following his reception by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, alongside Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, General Anderson described talks with Algeria’s top military leadership, including Chief of Staff General Saïd Chengriha, as “fruitful.”
“We deeply value the enduring cooperation Algeria continues to strengthen in combating terrorism,” Anderson told dzwatch. “We look forward to intensifying this partnership, especially as terrorism expands globally — a threat we consider urgent.”
The AFRICOM chief stressed that military solutions alone are insufficient, emphasizing the need for economic investment, development, and social cohesion alongside security measures.
Drawing a parallel between both nations’ colonial histories, Anderson noted: “As we celebrate 250 years of American independence, we recognize the importance of sovereignty and dignity — values we share with the Algerian people.”
He concluded by affirming that Algeria’s unique expertise and America’s global counter-terrorism experience create a powerful opportunity for future collaboration serving both nations’ security interests.
