Algerian Radio
Dr. Abdelkader Soufi, Professor of Political Science and International Relations, specializing in African and Sahel issues, affirmed that Algeria-Chad relations represent an advanced model for the African continent. These ties are built on mutual understanding, trust, and joint coordination regarding Sahel and regional issues. Algeria has consistently sought to strengthen brotherly bonds with African nations, drawing momentum from shared struggle and an unconditional commitment to supporting African causes and achieving comprehensive development across the continent.
Speaking as a guest on the "L’Invité de la Rédaction" program on the National Radio’s Channel 1, Dr. Abdelkader Soufi explained that these relations have evolved in recent years beyond the traditional diplomatic framework. This shift follows the efforts of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and his Chadian counterpart, Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, to elevate ties to a multi-dimensional strategic partnership. This cooperation encompasses the economic, commercial, energy, and investment sectors, alongside intensified political coordination on regional and international issues within the African Union and the United Nations.
Dr. Abdelkader Soufi noted that Chad currently produces approximately 140,000 barrels of oil per day, with more than 50% exported as crude to the United States via Cameroon. He suggested this could be a key area for bilateral cooperation, as Algeria can contribute to developing Chad’s refining capacities and increasing value-added by investing in human resources and enhancing the expertise of Chadian energy sector cadres.
He further indicated other promising fields of cooperation, noting that 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 partnerships and expertise to ensure the sovereign exploitation of these resources in collaboration with Algeria.
The expert emphasized that the Algerian approach is based on the "Win-Win" principle and building a shared future away from the logic of exploitation. He cited Algeria’s allocation of $1 billion to finance development projects in Africa through the Algerian International Cooperation Agency for Solidarity and Development (ALDEC), in addition to initiatives to establish banks and enhance trade and maritime links with West African countries, including Mauritania and Senegal.
Dr. Abdelkader Soufi highlighted that cooperation fields include Algerian products that meet the needs of the Chadian market, particularly in energy, agri-food products, pharmaceutical industries, and various equipment. This also extends to infrastructure projects, power plants, and related services, coordinated with Algerian public and private enterprises. He also noted efforts to facilitate the access of Chadian products to the Algerian market, especially raw materials intended to support productive projects.
Furthermore, he pointed out that the 4th edition of the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) translated Algeria's strategic vision for African integration by promoting South-South partnerships. During an interactive session organized on the sidelines of the fair, the Chadian President praised Algeria's leading role in "realizing the continent's great dreams by enhancing intra-African trade and promoting partnerships." He also expressed his country's desire to "capitalize on the Trans-Saharan Highway project." In response, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune reaffirmed Algeria’s readiness to assist Chad in everything that fosters its economic development.
Finally, Dr. Abdelkader Soufi expects the global port of Djen Djen to become Algeria's gateway to Africa. The port will soon be linked to the South, the East-West Highway, and the High Plateaus, allowing for the transport of goods to Chad, Niger, Mali, and other African nations. Given its proximity to the Bellara steel complex in El Milia ( Wilaya of Jijel ), the port is set to radically transform the economic landscape of the region.
