Algiers, May 15, 2026 — The Algerian Minister of Religious Affairs and Wakfs, Youcef Belmehdi, received on Friday at the VIP lounge of Algiers Houari Boumediene International Airport, Sheikh Mouhamadoul Mahi Ibrahima Niass, the General Khalifa of the Fayda Tijaniyya of Senegal, who has begun a visit to Algeria.
On this occasion, Belmehdi, accompanied by the General Khalifa of the Tijaniyya order, Sheikh Sidi Ali Belarabi, emphasized “the depth of the fraternal and cordial relations uniting the Algerian and Senegalese peoples, as well as the importance of strengthening spiritual and religious cooperation between the two brotherly countries,” reaffirming “Algeria’s commitment to further enhancing spiritual and religious ties with Senegal.”
For his part, Sheikh Belarabi stated that the visit of Sheikh Niass takes place within the framework of “strengthening the historical and spiritual ties between Algeria and Senegal,” adding that it aims to allow the guest to become acquainted with the landmarks of the Tijaniyya order in Algeria, particularly through a visit to its headquarters in the city of Ain Madhi, considered a global spiritual reference of the Tijaniyya order and the birthplace of Sheikh Ahmed Tijani.
He added that relations between the two peoples are based on “love, cordiality, and the service of Islam.”
Sheikh Niass, in turn, expressed his happiness at visiting Algeria, describing it as a “land of dignity and struggle,” while praising its history of resistance and its positions rejecting injustice. He also highlighted the depth of spiritual and historical ties between Algeria and Senegal, stating that the Senegalese people view Algeria as a model of courage, sacrifice, and defense of human values.
Belmehdi was also accompanied by the president of the scientific council of Djamaâ El-Djazaïr and a representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
