Algerian President: Africa will not accept being a victim of the new selectivity in setting priorities
ORAN, Algeria – The Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune said that the world is currently undergoing profound transformations and increasing tensions, pushing the international system toward a critical crossroads.
In his speech, delivered on Sunday at the opening of the 11th session of the High-Level Seminar on Peace and Security in Africa, “Oran Process,” read by Minister of State, Minister of Foreign Affairs and National Community Abroad and African Affairs, Ahmed Attaf, President Tebboune said: “We are experiencing the devastating consequences of a policy of polarisation between major powers, which casts a dark shadow over global stability and security, blatantly violating international legitimacy and the values upon which the international system was built.” He added, “The selectivity in setting global priorities and the manipulation of principles that should unite humanity have led to the marginalisation of our African continent, relegating it to the bottom of international concerns.” Accordingly, the Algerian President cited the suffering of Palestinians as a clear example of the disregard for international legitimacy and as a symbol of the gap between declared principles and actual practices.
The president warned that “this dangerous reality does not only threaten the fate of a single country but also has repercussions for the future of the entire international system.” He stressed that “our African continent, which has historically endured various forms of oppression, injustice, and marginalisation, will not accept being a victim of this new selectivity.”
President Tebboune highlighted the significance of the 11th session of Oran High-Level Seminar on Peace and Security in Africa, describing it as more than just a meeting, as “it symbolises commitment and unity, and sends a powerful message to the world that Africa is determined, united, and capable of raising a strong, unified, and influential voice at the highest levels of the international system.” He emphasised the international system’s need to advocate for wisdom, justice, and commitment, especially as it suffers from paralysis, reflecting the deteriorating state of global relations.
The president reiterated that the mechanism established by this seminar, aimed at enhancing coordination between the African Union’s Peace and Security Council and the three African members of the UN Security Council, is the best way to ensure that the African common positions are effectively reflected in UN decisions related to peace and security.
Moreover, President Tebboune pointed out Algeria’s role in defending African causes and in choosing Oran as the hub for African joint action. He also noted Algeria’s dedication during its first year as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, working in coordination with Mozambique and Sierra Leone, to represent the continent effectively in this central international body. He reiterated that Algeria has spared no effort in strengthening Africa’s influence on decision-making processes, particularly those directly affecting the continent, based on shared positions and the principles, values, and ideals enshrined in the African Union’s founding charter.
Algeria, according to President Tebboune, remains committed to continuing these efforts during the second year of its term at the UN Security Council, alongside Sierra Leone and Somalia.
Additionally, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune praised the selection of topics for discussion in the 11th session of the High-Level Seminar on Peace and Security in Africa, saying that “this choice reflects the African Union’s commitment to addressing current challenges and responding to the continent’s peace and security priorities. It also demonstrates a deep awareness of the magnitude of these challenges, particularly the threat of terrorism, the issue of funding peacekeeping operations, and the opportunities presented by the UN’s “Charter of the Future” for Africa to end the historical injustices it has faced and secure fair representation in the UN Security Council.”
President Tebboune reaffirmed Algeria’s unwavering commitment to supporting efforts that contribute to a unified voice for Africa’s interests. He vowed that Algeria would remain a unifying bridge, a source of support, and a powerful voice advocating for Africa’s concerns, issues, and aspirations within the African Union.
In the conclusion of his speech, the Algerian President expressed his hope that the meeting would lead to decisions that pave the way for a brighter future for Africa, where its interests are respected, its voice is heard, and its ambitions are realised.
