In a powerful address at the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum in Sochi, Russia, Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf called for a decisive end to both old and new colonialism in Africa.
Speaking on November 9, 2024, Attaf emphasized that colonialism, in any form, has no place in the modern world or on the African continent.
Attaf’s remarks alluded to the ongoing issue of Western Sahara, which has been occupied by Morocco, with France actively supporting Morocco’s autonomy plan announced in July 2024.
This sparked a strong protest from Algeria, which views France’s support as an alignment between former and contemporary colonial powers.
In response, Algeria withdrew its ambassador from Paris, signaling its disapproval of France’s position on the matter.
In his speech, which was later shared in a statement by the Algerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Attaf stressed the importance of “African solutions to African problems.”
He noted that foreign-imposed solutions have repeatedly failed to resolve conflicts and crises across the continent.
“External interventions have never proven effective in extinguishing the flames of conflict,” he remarked, underscoring the need for African-led peace and stability efforts.
Attaf also acknowledged Russia’s significant contributions to Africa’s development, particularly its support for independent African nations in building their economies and its role in the fight against colonialism.
He expressed a desire to elevate the Russia-Africa partnership, building on mutual trust and a shared vision for a more stable and equitable international order.
“We aspire to a global system where every nation enjoys security, stability, and prosperity,” he said.
The Algerian Foreign Minister further highlighted the importance of increasing trade and investment between Africa and Russia.
“Algeria is committed to supporting the goals set to enhance commercial exchanges and Russian investments in Africa,” Attaf affirmed.
In addition, Attaf called for stronger cooperation between African nations and Russia in the fight against terrorism and transnational crimes, which he identified as the greatest threats to Africa’s security and development.
He also urged for an end to Africa’s marginalization in the United Nations Security Council and other global economic and financial institutions, stressing that Africa must have a greater voice in international decision-making, especially in matters that directly affect the continent.
Attaf concluded his speech by reaffirming Algeria’s commitment to advancing the collaborative projects discussed at the Russia-Africa Forum, stressing their alignment with the continent’s aspirations for the future.
