Algeria and Chad Strengthen Bilateral Ties Amid Sahel Instability
Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf visits N'Djamena to reinforce security and economic cooperation.
1Diplomatic Mission in N'Djamena
Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf visited N'Djamena on November 3 as an official envoy for President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. He met with Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby to discuss bilateral relations. The visit aimed to maintain the positive momentum established in recent months, focusing on shared economic and security interests between the two nations.
2Implementation of Bilateral Accords
Both nations reviewed the progress of nearly thirty agreements signed during the fourth joint commission held in April. A key project currently underway is the construction of an Algerian-Chadian power plant near the Chadian capital. These initiatives represent a transition from simple friendship toward a more structured and tangible strategic partnership.
3Security Cooperation and Sahel
Security remains a central pillar of the dialogue between Ahmed Attaf and his Chadian counterpart, Ahmat Kogri. Discussions addressed the persistent instability in the Sahel region and collective efforts to combat terrorism. Algeria’s recent military deployment to Niger to protect energy interests underscores the high stakes involved in regional security coordination.
4Algeria's Evolving Regional Strategy
Algeria is actively recalibrating its diplomatic presence across the Sahel after a period of strained relations. By engaging with N'Djamena, Algiers seeks to position itself as a central mediator. This strategy follows successful efforts to restore dialogue with neighboring countries like Mali and Niger, marking a significant shift in regional influence.
5Shifting Regional Alliances
The regional landscape is undergoing a major transformation as traditional organizations like the G5 Sahel have dissolved. With Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger exiting the ECOWAS bloc, Chad occupies a complex position between different political spheres. Consequently, diplomatic influence is increasingly exercised through direct, capital-to-capital communication rather than through regional institutions.
6The Value of Direct Access
Bakary Sambe, director of the Timbuktu Institute, highlights that Algeria’s unique advantage is its ability to maintain open communication channels with both Niamey and N'Djamena. In a region effectively split into two, this capacity to facilitate direct dialogue is considered a highly valuable asset for Algeria’s broader diplomatic objectives.
7Economic and Energy Focus
Beyond security, the economic dimension of the partnership is critical for long-term stability. The focus on infrastructure projects, such as the power plant in N'Djamena, demonstrates a commitment to development. These projects serve as physical evidence of the cooperation agreements signed earlier this year, aiming to foster deeper integration between the nations.
8Future Diplomatic Outlook
The visit confirms that Algeria intends to remain a key player in the Sahel’s future. By strengthening ties with Chad, Algiers is securing its strategic interests while navigating a fragmented geopolitical environment. Future developments will likely depend on the successful execution of existing agreements and the ability to manage regional security threats.
Original article: RFI – Afrique — Algeria and Chad Strengthen Bilateral Ties Amid Sahel Instability