BY: Hana Saada

ALGIERS- Algeria, a prominent economic, political, and military power in Africa, is undergoing an accelerated international redeployment strategy. Recognized as a pivotal country within the African continent and the Mediterranean basin, Algeria aims to strengthen its rank and influence on the global geopolitical scene. President Tebboune’s initiatives seek to intensify diplomatic actions and revitalize economic partnerships across different regions of the world.

In response to the changing economic landscape, Algeria is diligently working on multiple fronts to diversify its economy. The country’s focus lies in the development of non-hydrocarbon exports and positioning itself as an attractive destination for international investors across various sectors.

The President of the Republic, Abdelmadjid Tebboune, has concluded a successful two-day working visit to Qatar, aimed at bolstering bilateral relations between the two nations. During his stay, President Tebboune engaged in official talks with the Emir of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim Ben Hamad Al Thani, to explore avenues for collaboration in various fields such as economy, trade, industry, energy, and technology. The discussions also encompassed the latest regional and international developments.

The meeting, which took place in Doha, witnessed the participation of a high-level Algerian delegation, including prominent figures such as the Minister Foreign Affairs and National Community Abroad Ahmed Attaf, the Minister of Finance Laaziz Fayed, the Minister of Energy and Mining Mohamed Arkab, the Minister of Post and Telecommunications Karim Bibi Triki, the Minister of Pharmaceutical Industry Ali Aoun, the Minister of Trade and Export Promotion Tayeb Zitouni, the Minister of Public Works, Hydraulics and Basic Infrastructures Lakhdar Rakhroukh, the Minister of Housing, Urban Planning and the City Mohamed Tarek Belaribi, the Minister of Knowledge Economy, Startups and Micro-enterprises Yacine El-Mahdi Oualid, and several other key officials from different sectors.

On the Qatari side, notable attendees included Sheikh Saud Ben Abderrahmen Al Thani, president of the Amiri Diwan, Sheikh Mohammed Ben Hamed Ben Kasim Al Thani, Minister of Commerce and Industry, Mohammed Ben Ali Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, and Soltan Ben Saad Al Mouraikhi, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, among others.

The talks were conducted in an atmosphere of warmth and mutual respect, reflecting the strong fraternal relations between the two countries. Both leaders expressed their commitment to further develop and strengthen bilateral ties, aligning with the aspirations of their respective peoples.

Mr. Abdelmadjid Tebboune conveyed his gratitude to the Emir for the warm welcome and generous hospitality extended to him during his visit. He expressed his hope that the discussions would lead to enhanced cooperation and closer relations between Algeria and Qatar.

The bilateral meeting between President Tebboune and the Emir of Qatar provided an opportunity for the leaders to exchange views on various matters of shared interest, including regional developments. It served as a platform to deepen their understanding and explore potential areas of collaboration that can mutually benefit both nations.

In a significant gesture of friendship, the Emir of Qatar hosted a luncheon banquet in honour of the Algerian President and the delegation accompanying him, further highlighting the amicable ties between the two countries.

Emphasizing the significance of the talks, the Emir of Qatar expressed his satisfaction with the discussions, stating, “I had the pleasure of welcoming my brother, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, and I welcome the talks we have had today on ways to promote the deep-rooted fraternal relations between Algeria and Qatar, the latest developments in the situation at the regional and international levels, as well as on the prospects for strengthening joint Arab action in the best interests of our peoples.” This statement, shared via the Emir’s official Twitter account, underlined the commitment of both leaders to advancing the partnership between Algeria and Qatar.

Algeria’s ambassador to Qatar, Saleh Attia, on his part, emphasized the deepening bond between the two sisterly countries and highlighted their commitment to achieving economic integration, coordination, and high-level sectoral cooperation. In an interview with the Qatari Al-Sharq newspaper, Ambassador Attia underscored the significance of President Tebboune’s working visit to Qatar, which serves as a testament to the remarkable momentum in Algerian-Qatari bilateral relations and the shared political will to elevate these ties, particularly in the economic sphere, including investment promotion.

According to Ambassador Attia, Algeria and Qatar enjoy a strong fraternal relationship characterized by warmth, respect, and continual consultation between their leaders. He also expressed the aspiration of both nations to elevate their ties to a strategic level and highlighted the importance of dialogue, diplomacy, and support for peaceful dispute resolution.

Ambassador Attia further emphasized that Algeria’s forthcoming non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2024-2025 period will enhance its role in strengthening economic cooperation and promoting joint investments between the two countries. Recognizing the immense economic potential and opportunities that both Algeria and Qatar possess, the ambassador applauded the successful partnership model demonstrated by the Algerian-Qatari steel company, which invested over 2 billion US dollars in the Bellara industrial zone, establishing Qatar as Algeria’s leading Arab investor.

The ambassador regarded President Tebboune’s visit to Qatar as a resounding success that will provide renewed impetus to the bilateral relations between the two brotherly nations. He further announced the upcoming sixth session of the Algerian-Qatari Joint High-Level Committee, scheduled to take place in Algeria during the final third of the current year. This session will serve as another significant opportunity to enhance fruitful bilateral cooperation in line with the high-level directives from the leaderships of both countries.

In addition, Ambassador Attia commended the generous hospitality, warm reception, and great appreciation extended to the Algerian community residing in Qatar by the Qatari authorities. He acknowledged the positive role played by the Algerian community in fostering communication and making constructive contributions to the remarkable development process in Qatar.

The close and enduring bond between Algeria and Qatar continues to grow stronger, driven by their shared commitment to economic progress, cooperation, and mutual respect. As both countries harness their considerable potential, their efforts pave the way for a future marked by fruitful collaboration and a strategic partnership that benefits their brotherly peoples.

The successful visit of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune to Qatar and the productive discussions held with the Emir of the State of Qatar mark an important milestone in the strengthening of bilateral ties. It is expected that the outcomes of these talks will pave the way for increased collaboration and prosperity between Algeria and Qatar, benefiting both nations and fostering regional stability.

As Algeria and Qatar solidify their partnership, they demonstrate their commitment to mutual growth and cooperation, while setting an example for fruitful international relations based on shared values and aspirations.

Algeria and Qatar have solidified their economic ties through a series of strategic partnerships and investment initiatives, as highlighted during the recent visit of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune to Qatar. The two nations have demonstrated a shared commitment to enhancing their economic cooperation, capitalizing on investment opportunities, and fostering mutual growth. With the implementation of favorable investment regulations, both countries have paved the way for remarkable advancements in various sectors, underscoring the exceptional nature of their economic relations.

One of the notable collaborative projects between Algeria and Qatar is the construction of the Algerian-Qatari-German hospital. In November last year, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and Sheikh Tamim Ben Hamad Al-Thani jointly launched this ambitious project, which aims to build a world-class hospital adhering to international standards. With a capacity of 400 beds, the hospital will revolutionize healthcare in Algeria by providing advanced medical facilities and addressing the need for medical treatments previously requiring overseas transfers. This milestone reflects the shared commitment of both nations to enhance healthcare infrastructure and services.

In addition to the healthcare sector, Algeria and Qatar have signed several agreements to expand their economic cooperation. Notably, a memorandum of understanding was signed in February 2022 for the extension of the Algerian-Qatari steel company’s complex in the Bellara region (Jijel). This extension project is set to double the plant’s annual production capacity from 2 million to 4 million tons, thereby boosting the steel industry in Algeria and contributing to its economic growth.

The partnership between Algeria and Qatar has also extended to the tourism sector. In January 2022, the two nations signed a framework agreement aimed at strengthening cooperation and investment in hotel management and tourism. The agreement signifies a commitment to elevate Algerian hotels to international standards and enhance service quality. As part of this agreement, Retaj Hotels and Hospitality, a prominent Qatari company, will provide management expertise, rehabilitation support, and service improvements to Algeria’s public hotel group HTT, encompassing 73 hotels across the country. This collaboration will undoubtedly elevate Algeria’s tourism industry and enhance its appeal as a destination for global travelers.

Furthermore, Qatar’s interest in the agri-food sector has led to significant investment in dairy production in Algeria. Baladna, a renowned Qatari company specializing in dairy production and animal husbandry, has expressed keen interest in establishing a large-scale project in the wilaya of El Bayadh. The Qatari experts who visited El Bayadh expressed satisfaction and enthusiasm for the project’s implementation. Baladna aims to provide fodder and cows to expand its parent company’s business in Qatar and export milk to international markets, further bolstering Algeria’s agricultural sector and promoting economic diversification.

The Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Algeria, Abdulaziz Ali Al-Naama, emphasized the positive impact of Algeria’s new investment law on bilateral economic relations. The Qatari League of Businessmen welcomes the wealth-creating opportunities presented by this legislation, paving the way for increased investments and economic growth for both nations. The contours of Qatari investments in Algeria will continue to evolve in the coming period, fostering mutually beneficial collaborations and contributing to the economic prosperity of both countries.

The increasing presence of Qatari businessmen in Algeria signifies a growing interest in accessing the country’s production and industry market. Through successive visits, these entrepreneurs have been diligently working towards establishing the necessary arrangements to facilitate their ventures. This proactive approach is a testament to the strong determination of Qatari investors to seize opportunities in Algeria.

Notably, the Qatari diplomat highlighted several examples of successful investments already undertaken by Qatar in Algeria. One notable project is the construction of the Algerian-Qatari-German hospital, which showcases the collaboration between multiple countries to enhance healthcare infrastructure. Additionally, Qatar has made significant strides in the dairy production markets, gaining access and making its mark in this sector.

The Qatari investments extend beyond healthcare and dairy production. The Algerian-Qatari steel company has expanded its activities in the industrial zone of Bellara, demonstrating a commitment to strengthening the industrial sector in Algeria. Moreover, the Qatari diplomat emphasized that there are more investments on the horizon, particularly in areas like air and maritime transport, railways, and various other sectors. These forthcoming endeavors reflect the breadth of Qatar’s investment ambitions and their intention to contribute to Algeria’s economic growth and development.

The recent developments in economic relations between Algeria and Qatar showcase the strength and potential of their partnership. The commitment to expanding cooperation and seizing investment opportunities in various sectors highlights the shared vision for sustainable economic growth. As both nations continue to deepen their ties, the future looks promising for the advancement of Algeria-Qatar economic relations, setting the stage for mutually beneficial progress and prosperity.