Tebboune Outlines Vision for African Security, UN Reform at Russia Summit

At the recent third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow, President Vladimir Putin explicitly praised Algeria as a strategic partner, affirming Russia's support for resolving the Western Sahara question within the United Nations framework for self-determination. Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb, representing President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, delivered an address that highlighted Algeria's appreciation for Russia's consistent backing of Sahrawi self-determination. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov further underscored the profound, centuries-old bilateral ties, tracing their foundations to a shared history and emphasizing the convergence of Russian and Algerian positions on global affairs, international law, and the pursuit of greater justice in international relations, noting the continued relevance of the 2023 comprehensive strategic partnership declaration.

In his comprehensive address, President Tebboune articulated Algeria’s vision for a more equitable global order and African sovereignty. He stressed that achieving full security and stability across the African continent necessitates eradicating its remaining colonial legacies, specifically citing the Western Sahara issue. Drawing on his role as the African Union's champion for preventing and combating terrorism, President Tebboune advocated a holistic approach that combines operational responses with tackling the root causes of violent extremism. He cautioned that external interference, regardless of its justification, exacerbates tensions and prolongs crises, diverting crucial resources from development.

President Tebboune also reiterated Algeria's steadfast commitment to the UN Charter, emphasizing respect for state sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the right of peoples to self-determination. He called for a fundamental rebalancing of global governance through the reform of the UN Security Council, advocating for fair and equitable African representation in international decision-making, in line with the African Common Position articulated in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration. He asserted that true stability cannot be imposed, but rather must emerge from respecting national sovereignty and fostering inclusive political dialogue led by the people concerned.

Furthermore, Algeria's presentation highlighted the importance of stronger continental integration and infrastructure development to connect African markets, resources, and populations. President Tebboune underscored key projects such as the Trans-Saharan Highway, energy and telecommunications interconnections, the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, and the African Continental Free Trade Area, all designed to reinforce economic cohesion and expand South-South cooperation. The summit concluded with the adoption of a final declaration, a Russia-Africa Partnership Forum Action Plan for 2027–2029 spanning 19 areas of cooperation, and a declaration on cooperation in the civilian use of artificial intelligence, providing a structured framework for future engagement.