BY: Dr. Hana Saada
ALGIERS- Algeria is embarking on a new paradigm of regional cooperation, emphasizing integration and strategic projects within North Africa. In response to the de facto disintegration of the Arab Maghreb Union (UMA), Algeria has shifted its regional approach towards fostering inter-Maghreb integration and engagement with North African partners, including Tunisia, Mauritania, Libya, and to some extent, Egypt.
This strategic shift comes in the wake of strained relations with its western neighbor, Morocco. Algerian officials have recognized the need to reassess the prevailing regional approach since the late 1980s and establish a framework that aligns with the evolving dynamics of the North African region. The focus on inter-Maghreb integration aims to enhance regional economic, commercial, and energy cooperation, providing Algeria with greater control over transnational development processes to serve its national interests effectively.
Algeria’s commitment to economic integration and African complementarity is underscored by its efforts to strengthen ties within the North African region. The establishment of Algerian banks and participation in trade fairs across Africa symbolizes the country’s proactive stance in promoting Algerian products and fostering economic exchange. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) serves as a platform for promoting economic integration through increased intra-regional trade, marking the beginning of genuine commercial exchanges.
Recent diplomatic engagements, such as the 7th Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) Summit in Algiers, reflect Algeria’s proactive approach to regional integration. The trilateral meeting between President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, Tunisian President Kais Saied, and Libyan Presidential Council President Mohamed Younes El Menfi signals a departure from the dormant Arab Maghreb Union structure. The aim is to revitalize regional cooperation, transcending past limitations.
This nascent initiative seeks to coordinate efforts and facilitate exchanges among concerned countries, fostering deeper economic integration within North Africa and the broader African context. By prioritizing North Africa as a focal point, Algeria aims to revitalize regional integration efforts, relegating the Arab Maghreb Union to insignificance.
Algerian officials have stressed the importance of African integration, emphasizing the government’s commitment to establishing African free trade zones along border regions. This strategic move reflects Algeria’s recognition of Africa’s economic significance and the potential of North Africa as a key energy and agricultural hub.
President Tebboune’s directives highlight Algeria’s commitment to continental integration and regional infrastructure projects, underpinning its African depth and solidarity policies. The integration of national infrastructure and regional projects reinforces Algeria’s strategic vision, emphasizing its dedication to Africa and inter-Maghreb integration.
About Dzair Tube Media Group
Dzair Tube has firmly established itself as a prominent player among Algerian digital news sites, offering a diverse and enriching content experience. The platform, available in Arabic, French, and English editions, captures the attention of a wide-ranging audience, amassing over half a million daily clicks.
A testament to its commitment to excellence, Dzair Tube received the prestigious President of the Republic’s Award for Professional Journalist in the Electronic Press category on October 22, 2022. This recognition underscores the platform’s unwavering dedication to upholding the highest standards of journalism.
With a significant online presence, Dzair Tube boasts 350,000 subscribers on YouTube, over five million followers on various Facebook pages, and 450,000 subscribers on Instagram. Its digital channel has become a hub for diverse programming, covering news, sports, entertainment, culture, and religion, catering to a broad spectrum of audience preferences.
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The success of the print edition of Dzair Tube’s sports newspaper, “Dzair Sport,” further highlights the platform’s impact, with over 50,000 daily downloads from the official Dzair Tube website.
Recently honored with the Media Leadership Award from the Minister of Communication, Mohamed Laâgab, Dzair Tube continues to shape the landscape of Algerian digital news, maintaining a position of influence and impact in the media industry.