The Chinese Embassy in Algeria organized a new reforestation operation this Saturday in the Zéralda forest. Three hundred trees were planted, symbols of Sino-Algerian cooperation strengthening sustainable development and the fight against desertification.
In his opening address, Cui Mingfeng, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Chinese Embassy in Algeria, declared: “In response to the initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Fisheries to plant five million trees, today the Chinese Embassy in Algeria organized a reforestation operation during which three hundred trees were planted, thereby contributing to Algeria’s green development.”
He specified that this is the eleventh reforestation operation organized by the Chinese Embassy in collaboration with Algerian partners, adding that “nearly 6,000 trees, symbols of Sino-Algerian friendship, have already been planted and are now growing vigorously thanks to the joint efforts of both parties.”
The diplomat also emphasized that China and Algeria attach great importance to reforestation and the fight against desertification, recalling that China’s “Three-North” shelterbelt forest project and Algeria’s “Green Dam,” launched in the 1970s, constitute pillars of ecological civilization building and global references for reforestation in arid zones. Cui Mingfeng noted that in recent years, China and Algeria have strengthened cooperation in reforestation and anti-desertification efforts, particularly through Algeria’s importation of paulownia species from China, as well as the promotion of innovative technologies such as drone aerial seeding and the use of photovoltaics to combat desertification. Algerian experts have already visited China to study and experiment with these new technologies.
Addressing the current dynamics of green development in Algeria, the diplomat mentioned the Green Dam rehabilitation project, green hydrogen development, and the promotion of a circular economy. “For its part, green development is also a hallmark of Chinese-style modernization, and China is accelerating the overall ecological transition of its economic and social development during the period of its 15th Five-Year Plan,” he continued.
Convinced that the two countries can deepen their pragmatic cooperation and strengthen strategic coordination on the path to building a beautiful China and a beautiful Algeria, Cui Mingfeng concluded his statement by wishing everyone a happy new year and a blessed Ramadan, on the eve of the Chinese New Year and the holy month of Ramadan.
In a statement to Jeune Indépendant, Mr. Cui Mingfeng specified that under President Tebboune’s initiative, Algeria has launched the Green Dam rehabilitation project, recognized worldwide for its contribution to combating desertification and preserving the environment. In China, a similar project has existed since the 1970s: the “Three-North” shelterbelt forest, which shares the same objectives as Algeria’s Green Dam. These two initiatives aim not only to protect nature but also to build a community of shared future, at both national and international levels.
Mr. Cui Mingfeng, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Chinese Embassy in Algeria, hailed the success of the reforestation operations, recalling that this action fits directly into the framework of the Green Dam project. He emphasized that both China and Algeria place great importance on combating desertification and protecting the environment, citing the famous Chinese saying: “Clear waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets.”
The Algerian initiative mobilized many local actors and associations, generating great emotion and shared enthusiasm. For its part, the Chinese Embassy in Algeria has already organized 11 reforestation editions and plans to continue its active participation in upcoming operations.
The diplomat also recalled that these projects are not limited to Algeria or China. Thanks to their scale and exemplary nature, they contribute to a global model of sustainable development, combining anti-desertification efforts, green economy, and environmental respect.
Finally, Mr. Cui Mingfeng announced a major economic initiative: Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a message of congratulations to the African Union and announced that starting May 1, 2026, China will apply a zero-tariff policy for 53 African countries, including Algeria. This measure aims to facilitate access for African products to the Chinese market and simplify trade procedures, thereby strengthening Sino-African economic ties.
For her part, Sabrina Hakkar, Director of Forests and the Green Belt of the Algiers wilaya, indicated that “we recorded strong participation from associative movements as well as economic institutions. All responded present with commitment and conviction, which testifies to a real collective awareness in favor of environmental protection.”
She emphasized that “this initiative plans to plant 2,500 trees over several hectares, where various forest species have been selected, including carob and olive trees, to strengthen the vegetal cover and preserve the ecological balance of the region.”