Algeria-Slovenia ties privileged, joint willingness to foster cooperation

ALGIERS – In recent years, bilateral relations between Algeria and Slovenia have made significant strides, driven by a shared commitment to advancing cooperation at both bilateral and multilateral levels.

The state visit of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune to Slovenia, starting Monday at the invitation of his counterpart, President Natasa Pirc Musar, reflects the strong resolve of both nations’ leaders to elevate bilateral ties and explore broader prospects. This visit provides an opportunity to deepen political dialogue on bilateral cooperation and address regional and international issues of mutual interest.

The positive momentum in Algeria-Slovenia relations is evident in recent milestones, including the establishment of embassies in both capitals and frequent high-level visits. Bilateral cooperation has been reinforced, with both nations aligning their positions on various international and regional matters, particularly as non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, where they demonstrate mutual support.

Algeria and Slovenia share aligned perspectives on key international and regional issues. Their close coordination in global fora underscores a joint commitment to addressing global challenges and pursuing peaceful resolutions to conflicts. Both nations advocate for a just resolution to the Palestinian question and support the efforts of the UN Secretary-General and his envoy to achieve a fair, lasting, and definitive settlement of the Western Sahara issue, grounded in the principle of self-determination—a cornerstone of historical significance for both countries.

This shared vision was further emphasized during the visit of Algeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, National Community Abroad, and African Affairs, Ahmed Attaf, to Ljubljana in November 2023. In a message to President Pirc Musar, President Tebboune reaffirmed his commitment to leveraging all opportunities to elevate Algeria-Slovenia relations to new heights.

In a congratulatory message following President Tebboune’s re-election for a second term in September 2024, President Pirc Musar expressed her satisfaction with the “privileged” bilateral relationship and her desire to continue collaborating, particularly in light of Algeria’s achievements on the UN Security Council and in bilateral engagements.

Minister Attaf’s multiple visits to Slovenia in recent years have highlighted the mutual pride in the growing momentum of bilateral relations. These visits have intensified high-level exchanges, expanded cooperation, and broadened the scope of shared priorities.

Similarly, Slovenia’s Prime Minister, Robert Golob, visited Algeria in May 2024, where he was received by President Tebboune. During this visit, Golob expressed Slovenia’s satisfaction with the robust level of bilateral cooperation, which was further solidified by the signing of several agreements. These included a reciprocal visa exemption for diplomatic passport holders, as well as memoranda of understanding in energy, environment, higher education, scientific research, artificial intelligence, and the establishment of a joint commission to foster collaboration. Golob reiterated the commitment of both nations to address international challenges, particularly in supporting the Palestinian cause and promoting peaceful conflict resolutions.

On the parliamentary front, relations have also flourished. The establishment of the “Algeria-Slovenia” parliamentary friendship group in October 2022 marked a significant step forward. During the same period, Brahim Boughali, President of Algeria’s People’s National Assembly (lower house of Parliament), visited Slovenia to discuss ways to strengthen ties based on mutual respect and friendship.

In September 2024, Urska Klakocar Zupancic, President of Slovenia’s National Assembly, visited Algeria, emphasizing the shared values and mutual support of both nations, particularly in their roles on the UN Security Council.