Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan delivered a speech on Thursday, May 7, in Ankara, following a ceremony with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune where multiple agreements and memoranda of understanding were signed. These agreements covered various areas of cooperation between Turkey and Algeria, encompassing a broad spectrum of bilateral interests. The event marked the first meeting of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council, which was established after Erdogan's last meeting with President Tebboune in Algiers on November 21, 2023. At that time, both leaders announced the decision to elevate their Cooperation Council to a higher level, forming the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council, which convened its inaugural meeting on May 7, 2026.
During his address, President Erdogan stated that Turkish-Algerian relations are driven by mutual respect and love, rooted deeply in their shared history and cultural bonds. He added that Turkey is determined to develop cooperation with Algeria, which stands as one of its largest trading partners in Africa, across strategic sectors including energy, mining, transport, and agriculture. This determination shows a commitment to fostering a strong and multifaceted partnership.
Economic Partnership Deepens
Algeria and Turkey are intensifying efforts to achieve a trade volume of ten billion dollars, a target initially established in 2023. This ambitious goal reflects the growing economic synergy between the two nations. Currently, more than 1,600 Turkish companies are operating in Algeria, engaged in projects and investments totaling up to eight billion dollars across various sectors. These significant investments span key economic areas such as industry, mining, agriculture, construction, pharmaceuticals, and infrastructure, contributing substantially to Algeria's economic development and employment. During the recent discussions, President Erdogan noted the significance of the meeting between private sector representatives at the Business Forum in Ankara, describing it as a valuable opportunity to explore new avenues for cooperation and identify further investment prospects.
President Erdogan further elaborated that cooperation between Algeria and Turkey in the energy sector has a long history, characterized by its reliability, stability, and sustainability. This enduring partnership has been a cornerstone of their economic ties. He also noted that both nations are actively working to enhance collaboration on energy supply security, with a particular focus on natural gas, recognizing its critical importance for both economies. Additionally, efforts are underway to assess potential partnership opportunities in the fields of renewable energy and modern technologies, aiming to diversify their energy portfolios and embrace sustainable solutions. Algeria and Turkey aim to activate their cooperation potential within the mining sector through joint investments and the exchange of expertise, leveraging their respective strengths in this vital industry. Turkey has also expressed its readiness to contribute significantly to Algeria’s agricultural prosperity, offering expertise and resources to boost food security and agricultural output.
Shared Regional and Global Stances
Cooperation in the defense industry between Algeria and Turkey is expected to bolster the security of both nations and contribute to the broader stability of the region. This collaboration aims to enhance defense capabilities and promote regional peace. Both countries also prioritize the reciprocal establishment of cultural centers, attaching great importance to these initiatives as a means to reinforce their fraternal ties and deepen mutual understanding between their peoples. President Erdogan and President Tebboune exchanged views on various regional and international issues, acknowledging a significant convergence of their visions on critical matters affecting Africa and the immediate region. This shared perspective allows for coordinated efforts on global challenges.
Turkey and Algeria are among the most vocal and strongest proponents of the two-state solution in Palestine, advocating consistently for a just and lasting peace. President Erdogan referenced the historic declaration of the State of Palestine in Algiers in 1988, showing Algeria's long-standing commitment to the Palestinian cause. He also expressed high appreciation for Algeria's consistent support and advocacy for the Palestinian cause during its two-year tenure as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council. President Erdogan asserted that the aggression by Israel in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon demonstrates unequivocally that the primary security challenge in the region stems from the expansionist policies of the Israeli government, creating instability and conflict.
President Erdogan showed the significant importance of enhancing security and stability in Syria, as well as contributing to its reconstruction efforts, recognizing the humanitarian and geopolitical imperative of a stable Syria. Turkey and Algeria maintain a shared position on the necessity of ending the cycle of violence that imperils peace and security across the region, advocating for diplomatic solutions and de-escalation. This common stance reflects their commitment to regional stability and conflict resolution.
Future of Bilateral Relations
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan recalled the massacres of May 8, 1945, during his address, paying solemn tribute to the martyrs who fought valiantly for Algeria's independence. He emphasized that the deep historical ties and shared struggles between the two nations form a strong and enduring basis for their future collaboration. Turkey and Algeria will continue to develop their friendship and cooperation across all fields, according to President Erdogan. This ongoing collaboration is predicated on the principle of mutual benefit, aiming to deepen the strategic partnership established between Ankara and Algiers. The commitment to expanding relations encompasses various sectors, building on the agreements recently signed and the inaugural High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council meeting, ensuring a dynamic and progressive relationship for years to come.
