Skip to main content

Russia expects to maintain footprint in Algeria despite unrest

In Moscow, the Algerian and Russian foreign ministers discussed the North African country's domestic political crisis, their mutual dislike for foreign intervention and the need to elevate bilateral ties.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and his Algerian counterpart Abdelkader Messahel enter a hall during a meeting in Moscow, Russia February 19, 2018. REUTERS/Sergei Karpukhin - UP1EE2J0R78HE

Ramtane Lamamra, the foreign minister as well as deputy prime minister of Algeria, visited Moscow March 19. His talks with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov seemed like a conversation between two old friends who have a lot to reminisce about. However, at the final press conference the Algerian guest passionately describing the changes coming up in his country while the Russian minister remained solemn. Discussing the issues of Algeria, Lavrov maintained his objections to foreign powers intervening in the matters of other countries.

The topic of foreign intervention into Algeria’s internal affairs became Lavrov’s focus during the public part of the talks — the opening ceremony and the final press conference.

Access the Middle East news and analysis you can trust

Join our community of Middle East readers to experience all of Al-Monitor, including 24/7 news, analyses, memos, reports and newsletters.

Subscribe

Only $100 per year.