In a recent high-level diplomatic visit, Ahmed Attaf, acting on President Tebboune’s directive, was warmly received in Washington by his American counterpart, Anthony Blinken. This visit underscores the intensified efforts to foster economic cooperation and deepen political dialogue between Algeria and the United States, with the goal of serving mutual aspirations.
Both nations aim to construct a strategic partnership that can actively promote regional and global security and stability, according to a statement from the Algerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
During his stay, the Algerian Foreign Minister met with senior officials from the US Department of State and National Security Council. Attaf also engaged in discussions with prominent American businessmen and representatives of the Algerian diaspora in the US. The timing and nature of this visit coincide with the unstable situation in the Sahel region, particularly after the coup that ousted Nigerien President, Mohamed Bazoum.
Before Attaf’s arrival in the US capital, a notable alignment was observed between Algerian and American positions regarding the events in Niger. Both nations unanimously condemned the military coup in the country. Interestingly, unlike France and some members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), both Algeria and the US oppose the use of force to restore constitutional order in Niamey.
Since President Tebboune’s visits to Russia and China, there’s been significant media chatter, primarily spurred by Morocco. The Moroccan regime propagated the idea of a fictitious anger within the Western bloc, particularly from the United States, due to Algeria’s apparent inclination towards the Russo-Chinese axis.
Additionally, claims spread by Morocco suggest that Algeria’s aspirations to join the BRICS organization were seen as a challenge to America and its allies. However, this assumption was quickly refuted by the White House spokesperson, Karine Jean-Pierre. She emphasized that the US does not ask its partners to choose between the US and other countries, referring specifically to Algeria’s intent to join BRICS.
In a prior press briefing, Jean-Pierre stated, “We have repeatedly affirmed that the US does not want to restrict partnerships with other countries. We wish for nations to have choices on how to achieve the best outcomes for their citizens.” This response is seen as a direct rebuttal to the Moroccan regime’s attempts to perpetuate the falsehood that Rabat is an exclusive ally to Washington.
Attaf’s visit to the US during the ongoing Sahel crisis signals Washington’s perception of Algeria as a sole reliable partner in North Africa and the Sahel region. This perspective undermines Morocco, which many observers believe merely functions in certain roles and does not qualify as a genuine ‘partner’. This belief is further cemented by the absence of Morocco in discussions seeking solutions to the Sahel crisis, despite its self-portrayal as the West’s chief ally in the region.
