Relations between Algeria and Chad received a significant boost following the official visit of Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno to Algeria from April 22 to 24, 2026, at the invitation of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. The visit culminated in the signing of 28 agreements and memoranda of understanding, alongside a shared commitment to elevate bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
The visit, which concluded with a detailed joint statement, reflected a notable convergence in political, economic, and security perspectives between the two countries, amid escalating regional challenges in the Sahel and across the African continent.
Historic Relations Moving Toward an Advanced Partnership
During their bilateral and expanded talks, both presidents expressed satisfaction with the quality of relations that have united their countries since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1975. They emphasized their determination to give these ties a “new impetus” that reflects the depth of brotherhood, solidarity, and mutual respect.
The joint statement highlighted that this partnership rests on solid foundations, including geographic proximity, historical and human ties, and aligned positions on key African issues. Both sides also praised the positive momentum in relations since the Chadian president’s previous visit to Algeria in September 2025 and agreed to strengthen the institutional framework of cooperation while activating follow-up mechanisms to ensure the effective implementation of joint projects.
Security Cooperation in Addressing Sahel Challenges
Amid growing security threats in the Sahel region, security cooperation featured prominently in the discussions. The two leaders exchanged views on issues of mutual concern, particularly the fight against terrorism, violent extremism, and transnational organized crime.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing coordination between their security institutions, especially in border security, intelligence sharing, and capacity building, while stressing respect for state sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs.
They also underscored that achieving security cannot be separated from development, noting that unilateral approaches are unlikely to resolve the region’s crises.
Promising Economic Partnership and Strategic Projects
On the economic front, the two countries agreed to accelerate cooperation and translate commitments into tangible projects, with a focus on key sectors such as energy, mining, renewable energy, and transport.
Both sides encouraged the establishment of structured partnerships between economic institutions, particularly in energy, infrastructure, and construction materials, with an emphasis on knowledge transfer and the development of local expertise.
They also highlighted the role of the Algerian-Chadian Business Council in boosting trade and encouraging investment, alongside plans to organize a joint economic forum to support collaboration between business actors.
Infrastructure and Regional Integration
The joint statement emphasized the importance of major infrastructure projects, notably the Trans-Saharan Highway, as a strategic initiative to reduce isolation and strengthen regional economic integration.
Both countries also welcomed progress in air transport, particularly the launch of a direct flight between Algiers and N’Djamena, and called for expanding connectivity networks.
In the context of digital transformation, the two presidents stressed the need to develop fiber-optic networks to support the knowledge economy and enhance technological cooperation.
Cooperation in Education, Health, and Culture
Social and humanitarian aspects were also central to the visit. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in higher education, scientific research, and vocational training.
They agreed to expand training programs and exchange expertise, particularly in the healthcare sector, while also supporting cultural and media initiatives aimed at bringing the two peoples closer together.
Political Alignment on Regional and International Issues
Politically, the two countries demonstrated clear alignment on regional and international matters. They reaffirmed their support for political solutions to African crises within the frameworks of the African Union and the United Nations.
This alignment extends to key issues such as Libya, the Sahel region, and Sudan, with both sides emphasizing the importance of respecting national sovereignty and adopting African-led approaches to conflict resolution.
They also addressed the issue of Western Sahara, reiterating their support for a political solution in line with UN resolutions, as well as reaffirming their backing for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination.
Toward a New African Axis
According to observers, this visit reflects Algeria’s growing ambition to strengthen its presence across Africa through strategic partnerships based on the principle of “African solutions to African problems.”
It also highlights Chad’s intention to diversify its regional partnerships, particularly in light of the security and economic challenges it faces.
At the conclusion of the visit, both presidents reaffirmed their determination to maintain coordination through regular consultation mechanisms and to closely monitor the implementation of signed agreements, ensuring tangible outcomes that benefit both nations and the African continent as a whole.
