Minister Attaf’s Triumphant US Visit Triggers Tumultuous Week for Makhzen
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- August 14, 2023– In a week that has sent ripples through the diplomatic corridors of power, Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf’ successful visit to the United States has marked a significant milestone in Algeria’s emergence as a key player in the ever-shifting geopolitical landscape of North Africa. The unexpected visit and the subsequent discussions between Minister Attaf and his American counterpart, Antony Blinken, have drawn sharp contrasts in regional alliances and priorities, ultimately shaking the foundations of the Makhzen regime’s diplomatic strategies.
Diplomatic Surprises Unfold
At the close of last week, international news channels aired scenes that underscored the duality of diplomatic power games. The meeting between Foreign Minister Attaf and Secretary of State Blinken, held during the former’s visit to Washington, left the Makhzen regime both dismayed and disheartened. The Moroccan establishment, which had seemingly believed that Algeria was turning its back on the Western world in favor of stronger ties with the East, was taken aback by the diplomatic unity displayed by Algeria and the United States.
Shift in Regional Dynamics
President Tebboune’s recent visits to Russia and China, combined with the postponement of his trip to France, had suggested that Algeria was pivoting its diplomatic focus. However, the meeting between Minister Attaf and Secretary Blinken dispelled any notions of Algeria’s alignment solely with eastern powers. During their discussions, both diplomats stressed their commitment to partnership, addressing issues such as stability in the Sahel region and lasting peace in Ukraine.
The turning point, however, came when Secretary Blinken confirmed the United States’ unyielding support for the United Nations’ political process concerning the Western Sahara issue. This declaration effectively placed the former US administration’s recognition of the “Moroccanity of the Sahara” outside the scope of the Biden administration’s diplomatic agenda, signaling a renewed commitment to international legitimacy.
A Cohesive Diplomatic Endeavor
The diplomatic dialogue between Algeria and the United States during Minister Attaf’s visit showcased a cohesion rarely seen in international politics. High-level meetings with officials from the US State Department, the National Security Council, and influential American business figures highlighted the depth and strength of the relationship between the two countries since President Tebboune’s ascent to power.
A Unified Stance on Regional Challenges
The recent upheaval in the Sahel region following the coup that ousted Nigerian President Mohamed Bazoum has further solidified Algeria’s and the United States’ harmonious diplomatic stance. The two nations’ alignment in adhering to legitimacy and advocating against military intervention was evident even before Minister Attaf’s visit. This mutual commitment underscores Algeria’s emergence as a vital partner for the United States in tackling regional challenges, particularly in the fight against terrorism.
Makhzen Regime’s Dismay and Desperate Attempts
Shaken by the outcome of Minister Attaf’s visit, the Makhzen regime expressed its displeasure openly. The regime’s attempts to generate resentment towards Algeria’s diplomatic openness to Russia and China, both locally and internationally, were palpable. However, these efforts failed to disrupt the growing recognition of Algeria’s proactive foreign policy and its expanding international partnerships.
Algeria’s Foreign Policy Bearing Fruit
Amidst these unfolding diplomatic dynamics, Algeria’s foreign policy approach is reaping rewards in terms of international acknowledgment and partnerships. The White House spokesperson, Karen Jean-Pierre, firmly denied the notion that Algeria’s engagement with the BRICS organization implied hostility towards the United States and its allies. The message was clear: Countries have the liberty to engage with multiple nations in the pursuit of their interests.
A Shifting Geopolitical Landscape
In its bid to stabilize the Sahel region, Algeria’s ascendancy as a reliable regional partner has irrefutably garnered Washington’s confidence. This contrasts sharply with the functional nature of the Moroccan regime, which has not shown active engagement in resolving the Sahel crisis, despite its self-portrayal as a Western ally in the region.
As the diplomatic currents continue to reshape the geopolitical dynamics of North Africa, the rapprochement between Algeria and the United States stands as a pivotal moment. The Moroccan regime finds itself at a crossroads, confronted with a changing regional landscape and the imperative to adapt swiftly to evolving geopolitical paradigms.
In the wake of Minister Attaf’s successful visit, Algeria’ stature as a regional stabilizer has not only solidified but also catalyzed a seismic shift in North African geopolitics. The diplomatic chessboard has been rearranged, leaving the Makhzen regime at a critical juncture that demands strategic recalibration and adaptation to the swiftly transforming international environment.
