Algiers — Through its dedication to peace, security, economic integration, and continental solidarity, Algeria continues to solidify its central position within Africa. The Vice-Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Salma Malika Haddadi, lauded this approach, noting that Algiers translates its commitments into tangible actions, establishing itself as a credible partner and an influential advocate for African interests on both regional and international stages.
For Salma Haddadi, this celebration transcends mere historical commemoration. She emphasized that it represents, above all else, “an opportunity to embody the core values of unity, liberty, and solidarity” at a time when the continent is navigating highly intricate political, economic, security, and humanitarian hurdles.
Expressing deep confidence in the continent’s inherent capabilities, the African Union Commission Vice-Chairperson observed that after overcoming “decades of colonization and subjugation,” Africa remains fully capable of rising to contemporary challenges by leveraging the cohesion of its people and the enduring spirit of pan-African solidarity.
Within this framework, Salma Haddadi highlighted Algeria’s pivotal contributions. She asserted that the nation “continues, under the leadership of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, its unwavering commitment to safeguarding African interests,” staying true to its foundational principles of backing liberation movements, respecting state sovereignty, and defending the right of self-determination.
According to the continental official, this strategic direction reflects a continuous desire to rectify the historical injustices endured by Africa. It aims to foster the construction of a “strong, independent, and united” continent that can effectively fulfill its populations’ aspirations for peace, sustainable growth, and prosperity.
The African Union representative also drew attention to Algeria’s driving role in continental peace and security architecture. She recalled that Algerian diplomacy consistently prioritizes political and peaceful resolutions to African crises, champions mediation frameworks, and firmly rejects foreign interference.
Furthermore, she pointed to Algeria’s “decisive” contributions to combating terrorism and transnational organized crime through collective African mechanisms, alongside its persistent efforts to amplify the continent’s voice within global forums.
On the economic front, Salma Haddadi stressed Algeria’s continuous dedication to the overarching project of continental integration. She recalled that the nation stands among the earliest and most active supporters of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Additionally, Algiers directly funds development projects across multiple African states to stimulate sustainable growth and maximize the value of the continent’s natural resources.
The Vice-Chairperson also touched upon Algeria’s prominent and visible presence during major continental summits. She pointed to the widespread recognition voiced by numerous African leaders toward the efforts of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune during the most recent African Union Summit.
In her view, these endorsements establish Algeria as “a dependable partner on both regional and international levels,” a reputation earned through its concrete actions in favor of peace, African solidarity, and constructive dialogue.
In this context, Salma Haddadi highlighted Algeria’s chairmanship of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) Forum of Heads of State and Government for the 2024–2026 term. She noted the praise directed at the President of the Republic for his commitment to African causes and historical memory, particularly through the organization of an international conference dedicated to examining the crimes of colonialism in Africa.
Concluding her remarks, she underscored Algeria’s active diplomatic maneuvers within the United Nations Security Council as a non-permanent member, highlighting its initiatives aimed at championing “African solutions to African problems.”