Italy’s new Ambassador to Algeria, Alessandra Schiavo, reaffirmed strong bilateral ties and noted the strategic partnership between the two nations during her speech on Italy's National Day. Speaking at the Italian Embassy in Algiers on June 2nd, Ambassador Schiavo emphasized that "Italians have always stood by Algerians and will never leave." She further stated that friends remain with their friends during challenging times, showing the depth of the bilateral relationship. These statements were made during her address on Italy's National Day, held at the Italian Embassy in Algiers on June 2nd, a significant diplomatic occasion. Ambassador Schiavo articulated that friends stay by their friends' side in times of hardship, reinforcing Italy's steadfast commitment to Algeria.
Rome has designated Algeria as a key partner within its 'Mattei Plan' for Africa, showing the North African nation's importance as Italy's first partner on the African continent. This strategic designation notes Algeria's critical role in Italy's broader foreign policy and economic initiatives. Currently, 150 Italian companies operate in Algeria, expressing intentions to expand their activities and increase local employment. Ambassador Schiavo affirmed that Algeria is set to remain one of Italy's most significant trading partners on the African continent, with the trade volume between the two countries reaching approximately 13 billion euros in 2025. The current volume of trade between Algeria and Italy already exceeds 13 billion euros, demonstrating the strong economic ties.
Enduring Partnership Across Sectors
Italy has expressed its readiness to share modern technology with Algeria, aiming to enhance oil and gas production capabilities. This technological transfer also seeks to support decarbonization efforts, reduce gas flaring, and advance renewable energy projects within Algeria. The partnership between Algeria and Italy extends comprehensively from the key energy sector to renewable energies, general industry, and agriculture, showcasing a broad spectrum of collaboration. Beyond the energy sector, Italy is prepared to offer assistance in agriculture, particularly for regions facing harsh climatic conditions. Such support is intended to contribute to job creation and foster economic development across various other sectors in Algeria, demonstrating a commitment to diversified growth. Italy is also ready to support agriculture in harsh climate regions and contribute to job creation and economic development in various sectors, aligning with Algeria's national development goals.
The ENI group stands out as one of the most prominent foreign investors operating in Algeria, playing a significant role in the energy landscape. The presence of 150 Italian companies in Algeria further solidifies the economic relationship, with many expressing a desire to expand their activities and employ local labor, thereby contributing to Algeria's economic growth and job creation. Looking ahead, future collaborative projects include the establishment of the 'Enrico Mattei' center. This facility, planned for the province of Sidi Bel Abbès, will focus on training, research, and innovation specifically within the agricultural field, promising advancements in agricultural practices and expertise.
Historical Foundations of Trust
The historical relationship between Algeria and Italy spans centuries, with foundational ties extending to the era of the Numidian kings Massinissa and Syphax, and ancient Rome. This long-standing connection has been a consistent element in the bilateral relationship between the two nations, providing a deep-rooted context for contemporary engagements. The enduring historical context provides a backdrop for contemporary diplomatic and economic engagements, emphasizing a legacy of interaction. These deep roots are often cited in discussions regarding the strategic partnership, showing a continuous thread of interaction and exchange over millennia. The legacy of these ancient connections contributes to the current framework of cooperation and mutual understanding, fostering a unique bond between the two countries. Since Algeria's independence, Rome has consistently maintained its relationship with Algeria, demonstrating unwavering support and never betraying mutual trust, a testament to the strength of their diplomatic ties.
Ambassador's Assurance of Support
Ambassador Alessandra Schiavo reiterated Italy's unwavering commitment to Algeria, stating that "Italians have always stood by Algerians and will never leave." She affirmed that Rome has consistently maintained its relationship with Algeria since the country's independence, without abandoning mutual trust. This enduring partnership is showed by significant economic activity, with the volume of trade between Algeria and Italy now exceeding 13 billion euros, confirming the strong nature of their commercial ties. Algeria holds the distinction of being Italy's primary partner on the African continent, a status that notes its strategic importance to Italy. The scope of collaboration between the two nations is extensive, spanning from the key energy sector to renewable energies, general industry, and agriculture, reflecting a full and multifaceted alliance. Evidence of this broad engagement includes the commencement of production by the Fiat car company in Algeria, a significant milestone in industrial cooperation. Ambassador Schiavo's remarks reinforced the depth and breadth of the strategic alliance, signaling a future of continued collaboration and mutual prosperity.
