Algeria will rise without French aid: Tebboune
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Algeria's president stresses that his country is expected to become an emerging country within two years, reaching the economic level of southern European nations, without French aid.
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A file picture shows Algeria’s President Abdelmadjid Tebboune at the G7 Summit hosted by Italy, in Savelletri, Apulia region, on June 13, 2024. (AFP)
Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune affirmed that Algeria is on track to become an emerging country within two years, emphasizing that it has no need for French development aid, which he claimed primarily serves France's interests.
In an interview with the French newspaper L'Opinion on Sunday, Tebboune stated that Algeria is expected to become an emerging country within two years, reaching the economic level of southern European nations with a gross domestic product exceeding $400 billion.
He added that by early 2027 at the latest, Algeria is expected to have completed its program to deliver 3.5 million housing units—two million of which have already been distributed—while also resolving water shortages and reducing the import of raw materials for factories.
Tebboune emphasized that Algeria aims to maximize local manufacturing and become a leading exporter of phosphate and its derivatives. He added that the country is also focusing on developing solar energy and producing green hydrogen, a new resource that will enhance its industrial appeal and strengthen its capacity to supply energy to Europe.
He pointed out that "Algeria is also working to enhance its food security and mobilize more water resources."
'Algeria does not need French aid'
Regarding French development aid to Algeria and the possibility of its cancellation, Tebboune dismissed its significance, stating that such calls stem from a deep misunderstanding of Algeria. He explained that the aid amounts to just $20–30 million annually, while Algeria’s state budget stands at $130 billion, with no external debt.
According to the Algerian president, "Algeria does not need this aid, which in reality only serves French interests," stressing, "We do not need this money, which serves, above all, France's foreign interests."
In response to a question about economic cooperation with China, Tebboune explained that China is interested in various sectors in Algeria, ranging from the latest technologies and electronics to digital technology and lithium batteries, given Algeria's availability of this raw material.
He also praised cooperation with Italy, stating that Algeria and Italy have a strong mutual partnership, with Italy strengthening its economic position each year.
Tebboune explained that Algeria's request to review its partnership agreement with the European Union stems from the country's desire to ensure its diverse industrial products can enter the European market on preferential terms.
He highlighted that Algeria's export ambitions have grown significantly, noting that in 2005, the country had little production beyond hydrocarbons, but today, it boasts a robust national industrial production.
