BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- The Embassy of India in Algiers marked the celebration of Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Day 2023 on November 30, 2023, at the Sofitel Hotel, Algiers. ITEC, a longstanding bilateral assistance program initiated in September 1964, focuses on collaboration with the global South, emphasizing training and capacity building as primary objectives.
As per a statement issued by the Indian embassy, ITEC has been instrumental in empowering Algerian professionals through comprehensive training courses at various centers of excellence in India. With the goal of enhancing professional skills and preparing participants for an increasingly globalized world, India generously offers 70 slots in diverse training courses at renowned Indian Institutes. These opportunities are extended to Algerian officials, public sector employees, universities, Chambers of Commerce and Industry, as well as the private sector.
A notable presence at the event was the gathering of Algerian ITEC alumni, reflecting the success and impact of the program. During the celebration, nine ITEC alumni shared their enriching experiences gained through training in India. Their expertise spanned fields such as public works management, power transmission systems, IT, big data technologies, techno-preneurship, agriculture, and crime investigation.
Since 2007, over 432 candidates from Algeria have benefited from ITEC training. The program’s popularity in Algeria is evident, with courses covering trade, power transmission, remote sensing, data science and analytics, and computing gaining particular traction.
Ambassador Gaurav Ahluwalia, in his remarks, underscored the excellent bilateral relations between India and Algeria. Notably, he highlighted that November 30, 2023, marks the completion of 365 days since India assumed the G20 Presidency, which is now set to transition to Brazil. Ambassador Ahluwalia also shared news about the successful Chandrayaan-3 mission, emphasizing India’s historic achievement as the first nation to land an unmanned craft near the unexplored south pole of the moon and the fourth country to achieve a controlled soft landing on the lunar surface.
The Ambassador urged Algerian ITEC alumni to play a pivotal role in fostering better understanding between the two countries, emphasizing their role as ambassadors to strengthen people-to-people ties for mutual benefit. The ITEC Day celebration served as a testament to the enduring collaboration between India and Algeria, creating a platform for continued growth and cooperation in the years to come.
From Historical Solidarity to Contemporary Partnerships
Algeria and India share a longstanding history of camaraderie, dating back to the pre-independence era of 1962 when diplomatic ties were formally established. India’s support for the Algerian Independence Movement, represented by the National Liberation Front (NLF), marked the beginning of a strong bond that has evolved into a multifaceted relationship.
The diplomatic relations, initiated in 1962 coinciding with Algeria’s liberation from French colonial rule, laid the foundation for a robust partnership. Over the years, these ties have remained amicable, with both nations consistently supporting each other on critical bilateral and multilateral fronts. The exchange of presidential visits has further solidified cooperation and coordination between Algeria and India.
Key Agreements: Numerous bilateral agreements have been inked, underscoring the depth of cooperation between the two nations:
Bilateral Assistance/Cooperation: India’s commitment to supporting Algeria is evident through various initiatives, including humanitarian assistance for earthquake victims and the launch of the Algerian Satellite Alsat 2A by the Indian Space Agency. Additionally, Algeria’s acknowledgment of India’s role in preserving the historical site of Tipaza demonstrates the depth of their collaboration.
Cultural Ties: Cultural exchange programs have flourished, with both nations sending troupes to participate in events such as the India-Africa Forum Summit, Algerian films showcased in New Delhi, and joint initiatives like “Bharat – Ek Parichay – Sharing knowledge with the world.”
Economic Collaboration: Recent economic collaborations, such as the $1 billion contract between Sonatrach and India’s Larsen & Toubro, highlight the depth of economic ties. Partnerships extend to various sectors, including agriculture and space exploration.
Military Cooperation: Algerian defense personnel’s participation in Indian courses, joint naval exercises in 2021, and bilateral Passage Exercises (PASSEX) involving naval forces demonstrate the robust military cooperation between the two nations.
Parliamentary Relations: The establishment of the “Algeria-India” parliamentary friendship group further emphasizes the commitment to closer ties through parliamentary diplomacy. This initiative aligns with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s reform project, contributing to building a new Republic and a promising Algeria.
Algerian-Indian relations have evolved dynamically, transcending historical solidarity to embrace contemporary collaborations, affirming mutual respect, and fostering shared growth.
