Việtnam, Algeria Elevate Ties to Strategic Partnership

Hanoi, The Gulf Observer: Việtnam and Algeria have formally announced the elevation of their bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership, as outlined in a joint statement issued during Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính’s official visit to Algeria from November 18–20 at the invitation of Algerian Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb.

The decision marks a significant milestone in the long-standing friendship between the two nations, founded on shared solidarity during their struggles for independence and strengthened over decades through political trust and mutual support. The upgraded relationship framework aims to expand comprehensive and effective cooperation, reinforce existing mechanisms, and promote new avenues of partnership.

Enhanced Political, Diplomatic, Security, and Defence Cooperation

Both sides agreed to increase delegation exchanges, especially at high levels, while enhancing the role of the Intergovernmental Committee and political consultation mechanisms. They also expressed intent to establish subcommittees dedicated to cooperation in investment, energy, industry, agriculture, and digital transformation.

The two countries reaffirmed their commitment to deepening defence, security, legal, and judicial cooperation, and to strengthening coordination in addressing non-traditional security challenges.

Support for Multilateralism and Regional Roles

Việt Nam and Algeria reiterated their support for multilateralism and reforms in global governance to ensure a more equitable and effective system reflective of the interests of developing nations. They expressed support for the central roles of ASEAN and the African Union (AU).

Việtnam welcomed Algeria’s accession to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC) and backed its aspiration to become a sectoral dialogue partner of ASEAN. Algeria, in turn, supported Việtnam’s greater participation in the implementation of the AU’s Agenda 2063.

Economic, Trade, and Investment: A Key Pillar

Emphasising economic, trade, and investment ties as the driving force of the Strategic Partnership, both sides agreed to enhance trade promotion, diversify exchanged goods, and consider launching negotiations for a preferential trade agreement aimed at gradually reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers.

A working group on Việtnam–Algeria business cooperation will be established within three months to facilitate stronger business links, mutual investments, and knowledge sharing in finance and banking.

They also noted the potential for expanding transport cooperation, including efforts to develop a direct flight agreement to boost tourism and trade between North Africa and Southeast Asia. Increased technical cooperation, skills training, and digitalisation in the transport sector were also encouraged.

Energy, Mining, Agriculture, and Climate Cooperation

Both sides praised ongoing cooperation between Sonatrach and Petrovietnam and encouraged expansion in joint oil and gas exploration, extraction, and research in petrochemical and strategic mining projects.

In agriculture and resource management, the countries agreed to promote sustainable development and climate change response. Việtnam expressed willingness to invest in agricultural complexes in Algeria to enhance food security at national and regional levels.

Cooperation in Digital Transformation, Technology, and Telecom

Việtnam and Algeria committed to increasing cooperation in science and technology, digital transformation, telecommunications, digital infrastructure, data management, smart postal services, and artificial intelligence. Algeria welcomed Việtnam’s assistance in modernising its information networks.

Algeria also expressed readiness to support Việtnam in building a Halal ecosystem by sharing expertise, providing training, and recognising certifications.

Urban Development, Culture, Education, and Local Cooperation

The two sides agreed to bolster cooperation in housing, urban planning, disaster risk reduction, and the development of new urban centres. They highlighted the importance of cultural, sports, and arts exchanges, along with enhanced collaboration in education, higher education, research, and document preservation.

They also expressed the intention to foster closer ties between localities, beginning with Điện Biên Province in Việt Nam and Batna Province in Algeria.

Facilitating Travel and People-to-People Links

To encourage stronger people-to-people exchanges, tourism growth, and business activities, the two sides agreed to begin negotiations on a visa exemption agreement for holders of ordinary passports.

The joint statement reflects the shared vision of Việtnam and Algeria to strengthen their relationship across diverse fields and to build a dynamic, mutually beneficial Strategic Partnership for the new era.