Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan delivered a speech in Ankara on Thursday, May 7, after overseeing the signing of agreements and memorandums of understanding with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. These full agreements and memorandums span various sectors, showing a concerted effort to deepen bilateral relations. During his address, President Erdoğan announced the decision to elevate the existing Cooperation Council to a higher level, establishing a High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council. This new council held its inaugural meeting on May 7, 2026, marking a significant milestone in the strategic partnership between the two nations.
President Erdoğan emphasized that Turkey is determined to develop cooperation with Algeria, which stands as one of its largest trading partners on the African continent. This determination extends to key strategic areas, including energy, mining, transport, and agriculture. Reiterating this commitment, President Erdoğan stated, "We are determined to develop our cooperation with Algeria, which is one of our largest trading partners in the African continent, in many strategic areas, foremost among them energy, mining, transport, and agriculture." He further added that Turkey and Algeria "will continue to develop our friendships and cooperation with Algeria in all fields on the basis of mutual benefit," noting the reciprocal nature of their strengthened ties.
Deepening Bilateral Ties
During his address, President Erdoğan recalled the historical significance of the massacres of May 8, 1945, noting past events that have shaped regional consciousness. He also mentioned a previous meeting with President Tebboune, which took place on November 21, 2023, in Algiers, indicating a consistent dialogue between the leaders. Officials from both nations have consistently stated that mutual respect and affection, deeply rooted in their shared history, constitute the core driving force of Turkish-Algerian relations. This historical bond provides a strong foundation for their expanding cooperation across various fields.
Algeria and Turkey are intensifying their efforts to achieve an ambitious trade volume of ten billion dollars, a target that was initially set in 2023. This goal reflects the significant economic potential both countries see in their partnership. Currently, over 1600 Turkish companies operate in Algeria, implementing projects and making investments valued at up to eight billion dollars, showcasing the substantial presence of Turkish enterprises in the Algerian market. A recent meeting between private sector representatives at the Business Forum in Ankara facilitated strong discussions on new cooperation opportunities, aiming to further boost economic engagement. Beyond economic ventures, both Turkey and Algeria attach significant importance to the mutual establishment of cultural centers as a means to strengthen the fraternal ties and promote deeper understanding between the two nations' peoples.
Strategic Cooperation Areas
The ongoing conflict in the region, stemming from Israeli actions, continues to adversely impact global energy markets, creating a volatile environment for energy security. Amid these challenging dynamics, Algeria and Turkey maintain a long-standing cooperation in energy, characterized by reliability, stability, and sustainability. This enduring partnership is a testament to their commitment to mutual energy security. Both nations are actively working to strengthen long-term cooperation on energy supply security, with a particular focus on natural gas, recognizing its critical role in their respective economies.
Turkey and Algeria are exploring partnership opportunities in renewable energy and modern technologies, aligning with global efforts towards sustainable development and technological advancement. These discussions aim to leverage their collective expertise to innovate in green energy solutions. The two countries also aim to activate cooperation potential within the mining sector through joint investments and the exchange of expertise, seeking to unlock significant economic value from their natural resources. Turkey has additionally expressed its readiness to contribute to Algeria's agricultural prosperity, offering support and collaboration to enhance food security and agricultural output. Beyond economic sectors, cooperation in the defense industry is viewed as a measure that will contribute significantly to the security of Turkey, Algeria, and the broader region, fostering stability through shared defense capabilities.
Shared Regional and Global Stances
President Erdoğan exchanged views with President Tebboune on a wide array of regional and international issues, reflecting the breadth of their strategic discussions. President Erdoğan expressed satisfaction with the notable convergence of views between Turkey and Algeria on key matters concerning Africa and their surrounding region, indicating a strong alignment in their foreign policy objectives. Both nations are strong defenders of the two-state solution in Palestine, advocating for a peaceful and just resolution to the conflict. President Erdoğan recalled the declaration of the State of Palestine in Algiers in 1988, showing its historical significance and Algeria's enduring commitment to the Palestinian cause. He also appreciated Algeria's steadfast support for the Palestinian cause during its past two-year membership in the UN Security Council, acknowledging its diplomatic efforts on the international stage.
President Erdoğan stressed that the Israeli aggression in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon has unequivocally proven that the real security problem in their region lies with the expansionist policies of the Israeli government. He noted the critical importance of strengthening Syria's security and stability and contributing to its reconstruction efforts, recognizing the necessity of a stable Syria for regional peace. Turkey and Algeria share a common stance on ending the cycle of violence that continues to threaten their region's peace and security, advocating for diplomatic solutions and stability.
