Algerian Radio
Hamza Boughadi, Director of the Institution for Economic Studies and Enterprise Development, stated that Algeria's conclusion of 27 cooperation agreements with Chad is part of a strategic path adopted by Algerian diplomacy within its African neighborhood. This vision, extending toward 2050, aims to shape a future founded on partnership and stability.
Speaking as a guest on the "Guest of the Morning" program this Wednesday, Boughadi explained that the 4th session of the Joint Governmental Commission held in Algiers aims to unify views on bilateral issues and strengthen coordination in the Sahel region, particularly regarding the crises in Libya and Mali, alongside counter-terrorism efforts.
He noted that Algeria and Chad share common concerns in the Sahel-Saharan region, highlighting that Algeria has historically adopted an approach based on political and security cooperation, prioritizing development as the primary gateway to protecting and consolidating regional stability.
"The agreements signed between Algeria and Chad cover multiple fields, including transport, energy, education, training, health, and trade—sectors viewed as the fundamental pillars for achieving stability," Boughadi added.
He further pointed out that Chad currently produces approximately 140,000 barrels of oil per day, more than 50% of which is exported as crude to the United States via Cameroon. This, he suggested, could be a key driver for bilateral cooperation, as Algeria can contribute to developing refining capacities and increasing added value by investing in human resources and enhancing the skills of personnel in Chad’s energy sector.
In this context, he indicated that other areas for cooperation exist, as studies show Chad possesses significant oil reserves estimated at over 1.5 billion barrels, in addition to diverse mineral wealth such as uranium, gold, and zinc. Consequently, Chad requires technical expertise and partnerships to enhance the sovereign exploitation of these resources in cooperation with Algeria. Boughadi stressed that the success of these agreements depends on their effective implementation on the ground, noting that Algeria is widely recognized for fulfilling its commitments.
Algeria Enjoys Africa's Appreciation and Trust
Boughadi emphasized that Algeria’s relations with the nations of the African continent are generally positive, noting that Algeria holds a special status among African countries thanks to its historical legacy and its role in supporting liberation movements. He added that African leaders continue to view Algeria as a reliable partner seeking to serve the continent’s interests and protect it from both old and new forms of exploitation.
He noted that the Algerian approach is based on the "win-win" principle and building a shared future far removed from the logic of exploitation. He cited Algeria’s allocation of $1 billion to fund development projects in Africa through the Algerian Agency for International Cooperation for Solidarity and Development, as well as initiatives to establish banks and enhance trade and maritime links with West African countries, including Mauritania and Senegal.
In this regard, he mentioned strategic projects such as the Trans-Saharan Highway and the project to connect African nations via fiber-optic internet, in addition to energy projects that Algeria has previously supported in countries such as Mauritania and Niger.
Boughadi concluded by reiterating that Algeria’s relationships with African countries are characterized by positivity, with Algeria maintaining a unique position due to its history of supporting independence movements, which reinforces its role as a trusted partner for the continent’s development and sovereignty.
