Russia pledges to strengthen Algeria’s military potential and improve stability in North Africa

The Defense Minister of Russia, Serguéi Shoigú, expressed willingness to strengthen the military capacity of Algeria during a meeting with the Algerian Army Chief of Staff, General Said Chanegriha.

As per an official statement, the Russian Defense Ministry aims to boost the Algerian Armed Forces’ military potential.

Shoigú emphasized Russia’s interest in Algeria taking a leadership role and enhancing the security and regional stability of Northern Africa.

He referred to the strategic partnership declaration signed by both presidents, which promotes the dynamic development of bilateral relations.

Russia and Algeria intend to pursue independent foreign policy and protect their national interests, as highlighted by Shoigú.

General Chanegriha, on the other hand, mentioned his country’s efforts to enhance its military capacity to counter threats and challenges facing the state.

He criticized the “destructive behavior” of Western powers.

He also acknowledged the support of the Soviet Union in 1954 for the revolution that led to Algerian independence from French control in 1962.

Last week, during the Russia-Africa summit, Russian President Vladimir Putin offered cooperation to African countries, especially in the Sahel, to strengthen their security and sovereignty.

African delegations had the opportunity to familiarize themselves with Russian anti-aircraft systems and the latest weaponry from the Kalashnikov corporation.

Since the last summit in 2019, Russia has signed contracts worth about 10 billion dollars with African countries.

Meanwhile, Yevgueni Prigozhin, head of the Wagner Group, expressed his intention to return to the continent. The Kremlin condemned the military coup in Niger, demanding the restoration of constitutional order, but Prigozhin defended it as an example of resisting Western interference in the region.