Djamaâ El-Djazaïr has received a document dating back to 1743, shedding light on Algeria’s position at the time as an influential Mediterranean power that imposed its maritime sovereignty and laws on foreign ships, according to a statement issued Thursday by the Rectorate of Djamaâ El-Djazaïr.
During an audience with the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to Algeria, Therese Loken Gheziel, the Rector of Djamaâ El-Djazaïr, Sheikh Mohamed Maâmoun Al Kacimi Al Hoceini, received this rare historical document recounting the interception by the Algerian fleet of a Norwegian ship lacking authorization to sail in the Mediterranean. The incident ended after the Dey intervened to release the ship’s crew, while stressing the necessity of respecting maritime laws and treaties.
The document highlights Algeria’s status at the time as a “powerful force in the Mediterranean, capable of imposing its maritime sovereignty and laws on foreign ships, and defending its interests by obliging its partners to honor their commitments,” the statement underlined. On this occasion, the Rector expressed “his appreciation for this symbolic gesture,” recalling that “Algeria’s history is filled with achievements and glories.” Algeria, “faithful to its centuries-old history,” seeks to strengthen cooperation with its partners, including the Kingdom of Norway, within the framework of sovereignty, shared interests, and mutual respect, the statement added.
