In a move towards enhancing India-Algeria bilateral ties, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan led a high-ranking Indian military delegation to Algeria from October 31 to November 3, 2024. This visit marks a significant chapter in India-Algeria relations, which have increasingly focused on cooperation across trade, education, technology, and defence.
During his visit, General Chauhan and his Algerian counterpart, General Saïd Chengriha, Chief of Staff of the Algerian People’s National Army, signed a historic Memorandum of Defence Cooperation. This agreement paves the way for long-term collaboration, extending beyond military training to include strategic sectors that enhance mutual security and regional stability.
The Indian delegation’s visit coincided with Algeria’s commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the Glorious Revolution, a pivotal event in the nation’s struggle for independence. General Chauhan paid his respects to the legacy of the revolution and praised the People’s National Army’s impressive parade marking this historic day.
Expanding Diplomatic and Defence Horizons
General Chauhan’s address at the Higher War College and interactions with senior officers from the People’s National Army underscored the shared values and historic ties binding India and Algeria. “The core strategic outlook of a nation is shaped by its geography and historical experience,” he stated, emphasizing the strategic advantages both India and Algeria bring to their partnership as regional leaders in South Asia and North Africa.
Reflecting on India’s stance on global peace, General Chauhan reinforced India’s commitment to peaceful conflict resolution, adding, “India always supports peaceful resolution to global conflicts. We welcome Algeria’s re-establishment of its Defence Wing in India.”
A Vision for a Multipolar World
As a part of the growing India-Algeria alliance, General Chauhan outlined India’s National Security Strategy, characterizing India as a “Vishwa-Bandhu” – a reliable partner for the world. He highlighted the strides India has made in space science and technology and emphasized India’s readiness to share defence knowledge with the Algerian Armed Forces, citing India’s evolving defence production capacity under the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Make for the World’ initiatives.
The visit reaffirms the strategic will from both nations to advance a balanced, multipolar world order. With Algeria’s significant role in North Africa and India’s leadership in South Asia, this partnership aligns with a shared commitment to sovereignty, self-determination, and mutual support in multilateral settings. (PR)