A high-ranking German government delegation, led by Jasper Wieck, the foreign policy and security advisor at the German Ministry of Defense, concluded its visit to Algeria.
The delegation’s last meeting was held at the African Center for Research and Studies on Terrorism, located in the eastern suburbs of the Algerian capital.
The meeting focused on the threats of terrorism and violent extremism in the Sahel region, especially considering recent significant security developments in Mali and Niger.
The African Center, in a statement on social media, shared images of the meeting between its director, Idris Lalali, and Jasper Wieck, along with members from both delegations.
It highlighted that the African Union body presented an overview of the evolving threats of violent extremism and terrorism in Africa, particularly in the Sahel region. The meeting emphasized expanding discussions on combating terrorism and extremism in Africa and enhancing the capabilities of African Union member states to confront all threats.
Wieck also held high-level meetings on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday with officials from the Algerian Ministries of Defense and Foreign Affairs. According to Algerian diplomatic sources, these meetings discussed security and defense issues in the region, in light of the escalating conflict in Mali and the involvement of the Russia-aligned Wagner Group in northern confrontations between the military government and Azawad opposition groups.
The situation in Niger post the coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26, 2023, and the new military authority’s decision to repeal the law criminalizing illegal migration, which could lead to significant migration waves towards Tunisia, Algeria, and consequently to Europe, was also discussed. The European Union has expressed concerns over this decision. The meetings, as per the same sources, also delved into the threats posed by terrorist groups in Burkina Faso.
The Algerian Ministry of Defense, in a statement, mentioned that the Chief of Staff of the Army, First General Said Chengriha, explored opportunities for bilateral military cooperation and ways to develop and strengthen coordination on issues of mutual interest. The challenges faced globally, particularly in the Mediterranean basin and Africa, were also a focal point of discussion.
The ministry quoted Chengriha stating that the visit of the German federal official “opens new prospects for cooperation in security and defense.”
He described Germany as a “qualitative partner for Algeria,” emphasizing Algeria’s keen interest in bolstering bilateral relations, particularly in military cooperation.
The Ministry of Defense also confirmed that Wieck’s talks included “the security challenges faced globally, especially in the Mediterranean basin and Africa.”
The German official acknowledged a strong willingness on the Algerian side to strengthen cooperation and consultation relations between the two countries, contributing to enhancing global security and stability.
