Strengthening National Unity and Strategic Vision: Abdelaziz Medjahed’s Call for Resilience Amid Regional Tensions – Interview

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | December 15th, 2024 — In a revealing and comprehensive interview with the news website Horizon, Abdelaziz Medjahed, the Director General of the National Institute for Strategic Studies (INESG), shared a strategic analysis of the increasingly complex geopolitical environment surrounding Algeria and the broader Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Medjahed, a seasoned expert in the fields of regional security and policy, offered a nuanced view of the shifting dynamics within the Sahel, the Arab world, and beyond. His commentary highlighted the critical importance of national unity and resilience as Algeria faces significant external and internal pressures that could undermine its strategic autonomy and long-term stability.

Algeria’s Position in the Regional Landscape

Medjahed opened the conversation by underscoring the growing instability in Algeria’s surrounding regions, particularly the Middle East and the Sahel. He pointed to the ongoing crises in Syria, Iraq, and Palestine, as well as the geopolitical vacuum in the wider Arab world. These challenges, according to Medjahed, are exacerbated by external powers seeking to exploit regional divisions to advance their own strategic interests. One key example he noted was the United States’ strategic concept of an “arc of crisis,” which encompasses a wide swath of land stretching from the Atlantic coast of North Africa to Afghanistan. This region, Medjahed argued, remains a focal point for foreign powers seeking to undermine any power that may challenge Western hegemony.

The U.S.’s involvement, along with other Western powers, in the Middle East and North Africa, often manifests in policies that destabilize states and exploit internal conflicts. Medjahed warned that this external interference has long-term consequences for regional security, and Algeria must be prepared to counter such strategies by strengthening its internal cohesion.

The Importance of National Unity

One of Medjahed’s central points throughout the interview was the crucial need for Algeria to maintain strong internal unity to withstand external pressures. Drawing on Algeria’s rich historical context, he reflected on how the country’s struggle for independence during the colonial period serves as a powerful example of the importance of national cohesion. He noted that, just as in the past, divided internal forces today could potentially jeopardize the nation’s sovereignty and its ability to influence regional politics.

Medjahed specifically pointed to the dangers of political fragmentation and disunity, noting that weak or divided states are more vulnerable to foreign interference. “Weakness and division fuel aggression,” he declared, stressing that unity within Algeria’s political institutions, civil society, and among the general population is key to shielding the nation from external meddling.

He cited Algeria’s founding moment—the creation of the “Special Organization” in 1947, which was a critical period in the lead-up to independence—highlighting how a united front across the political spectrum was crucial in advancing the cause of national liberation. “It is in the face of division that the enemy finds its opportunity,” Medjahed said, drawing direct parallels between the divided state of some regional nations today and the historical context of Algeria’s struggle for independence.

In the face of growing instability across the region, Medjahed called for a renewed sense of solidarity among Algeria’s political leaders and citizens. The national unity that characterized the independence struggle, he argued, must be reemphasized in the face of modern challenges. It is only through unity that Algeria can safeguard its independence and protect its interests from external threats, which range from military interventions to economic destabilization efforts.

The Sahel and the African Dimension

Medjahed also offered a detailed analysis of Algeria’s strategic interests within the Sahel region, a vital area of concern for the country. He discussed Algeria’s longstanding role as a key player in the security and development of the Sahel, where issues such as terrorism, organized crime, and political instability are particularly acute. Medjahed noted that the Sahel is one of the most volatile regions in the world, and it is here that Algeria’s leadership could have a profound impact on shaping regional security dynamics.

In addition to the security concerns in the Sahel, Medjahed highlighted the opportunities that Algeria has in advancing a united African stance against global challenges. “Africa’s future belongs to Africans,” he emphasized, drawing attention to Algeria’s efforts to promote cooperation within the African Union and through bilateral partnerships with key African nations. Algeria, he argued, should continue to leverage its diplomatic capital to foster economic integration, strengthen regional partnerships, and address the root causes of instability within Africa, such as poverty and lack of governance.

Medjahed also underlined the importance of Algeria’s educational diplomacy, noting that the country has long supported African students through scholarship programs and initiatives aimed at building human capital across the continent. These programs, he argued, are critical for shaping a new generation of African leaders capable of addressing the continent’s challenges with unity and collective action.

The Role of Strategic Vision in Foreign Policy

Looking beyond the immediate security concerns in the Sahel and the broader MENA region, Medjahed delved into the concept of Algeria’s foreign policy and how it can continue to evolve in response to global shifts. He stressed that Algeria’s foreign policy must remain rooted in its historical commitments to sovereignty, non-interference, and support for the Palestinian cause. At the same time, Medjahed argued that Algeria must adapt its approach to the changing geopolitical environment by strengthening relationships with both traditional allies and emerging powers.

In particular, Medjahed pointed to the evolving role of Algeria in international organizations such as the United Nations, the Arab League, and the African Union. He suggested that the country should take a proactive role in advocating for peace and stability, not only in Africa but across the broader Middle Eastern and Mediterranean regions. Additionally, he discussed the need for Algeria to reinforce its diplomatic relationships with countries in Europe, Asia, and Latin America, recognizing that Algeria’s interests now span far beyond its immediate neighbors.

A Call for National Resilience

Throughout the interview, Medjahed’s underlying message was clear: the future of Algeria lies in the ability of its people and institutions to unite around common national interests. He called for a renewed sense of resilience, echoing past lessons learned from Algeria’s independence struggle. “A strong Algeria is an Algeria that is united,” he declared, urging the nation to transcend political divisions and adopt a forward-thinking approach to governance.

Medjahed’s call for national resilience also extends to the future of Algeria’s international relations. He underscored the importance of preserving Algeria’s independent foreign policy and resisting any external pressures that might undermine the country’s strategic objectives. Whether through direct political engagement or multilateral cooperation, Medjahed believes that Algeria must be proactive in defending its interests and asserting its role on the global stage.

Interview by: 

https://www.horizons.dz/?p=205651

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