Algeria: President Tebboune’s diplomatic successes in 2023
Throughout the year 2023, President Tebboune has shone a spotlight on Algeria’s diplomatic prowess. Algeria has steadfastly adhered to its commitment to offer its experience, expertise, and resources to countries still under colonial rule and to support just causes, aiming to restore peace, stability, and independence.
With regards to Palestine, Algeria has remained true to its unwavering position of supporting the Palestinian cause, a top priority in its diplomatic agenda.
The country continues to condemn the ongoing barbaric Zionist aggression initiated on October 7 in Gaza, despite the shameful international silence.
Similarly, concerning the occupied Western Sahara, Algeria has consistently reiterated its unconditional support for the Sahrawi cause and people.
President Tebboune emphatically stated in 2023, «We will not abandon Western Sahara, whatever the cost».
In terms of diplomatic achievements in 2023, Algeria secured notable successes. In late September, the country was unanimously elected to the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) during the 67th General Conference for the period 2023-2025, held in Vienna.
Additionally, at the end of November, Algeria was unanimously re-elected by the 28th session of the Conference of States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention to sit on the Executive Council of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) for a two-year term starting May 12, 2024, representing the African region.
This recognition reflects Algeria’s positive role in chemical disarmament and its commitment to achieving the goals of the Chemical Weapons Convention.
In the same month, Algeria was elected to chair the Committee on Strengthening Cooperation and Assistance to the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention (CIMAP) for the year 2024, replacing Thailand.
This recognition is a tribute to Algeria’s pioneering role and experience in the fight against anti-personnel mines dating back to the National Liberation War, as well as its significant contribution to achieving the humanitarian goals of the convention.
These elections add to Algeria’s previous achievements, including its membership in the Human Rights Council and its non-permanent membership on the United Nations Security Council.
As the year concludes, Algeria is fully aware of the weighty responsibility it assumes and is poised to fully embrace it.
President Tebboune, in his address during the 78th session of the UN General Assembly, promised that Algeria, as it joins the UN body, will carry the hopes of African and Arab peoples.
Samir TOUATI
