Russia, Algeria talk about enhancing relations
Date
2/1/2025 12:55:13 AM
(MENAFN) Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev recently met with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune to discuss enhancing cooperation in various sectors such as finance, energy, and agriculture. The visit is part of a broader effort by Algeria to diversify its economy, particularly as its relationship with France has soured in recent years. In addition to these talks, Russia's new ambassador to Algeria, Aleksey Solomatin, presented his credentials to the Algerian Foreign Minister.
Patrushev highlighted the strategic nature of the bilateral ties, noting that both countries share similar views on many international and regional issues. Algeria’s growing ties with Russia have intensified as the country seeks to reduce its reliance on France, which it historically maintained close ties with as a former colony. Algeria joined the BRICS New Development Bank in August as part of this diversification strategy, and in October, it excluded French companies from a wheat import contract, turning to Russia instead as a major supplier.
Trade between Algeria and France has seen a significant decline, reportedly falling by up to 30% since the summer. In contrast, Russia’s agro-industrial exports to Algeria surged to $850 million in 2024, a testament to the growing partnership between the two countries.
The deterioration of relations between Algeria and France escalated in July, when French President Emmanuel Macron supported Morocco's autonomy plan for Western Sahara, a stance opposed by Algeria. This led to Algeria recalling its ambassador from Paris and the cancellation of a scheduled visit by President Tebboune to France. More recently, tensions have been fueled by France’s interference in Algeria’s handling of a French-Algerian writer, with Paris signaling plans for a response to what it perceives as Algeria’s hostile actions.
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