Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf has launched a diplomatic push in New York, holding a series of bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in an effort to restore his country’s weakened international standing.
Attaf met with counterparts from Slovenia, Spain, and the Netherlands to discuss bilateral cooperation and coordination within the UN Security Council, where Algeria currently serves as an elected member.
According to an official statement, the talks aimed to revive the intergovernmental commission with Slovenia, strengthen the economic partnership with Spain, and review regional issues with the Netherlands.
These moves reflect Algiers’ attempt to counter growing perceptions of diplomatic isolation. Algeria’s regional influence has been eroded in recent years by disputes with Morocco, France, Tunisia, and Italy, alongside tensions with the European Union over gas contracts.
Observers say the foreign minister’s meetings in New York signal the government’s determination to reassert its role on the multilateral stage. Yet, scepticism remains about Algeria’s credibility abroad, given the breakdown of relations with Rabat and ongoing frictions with key European partners.
In addition to his bilateral talks, Attaf participated in a Security Council debate on artificial intelligence, peace, and security. He stressed Algeria’s commitment to defending the “right of African countries to follow the technological revolution.”
Analysts note, however, that while Algeria promotes universalist rhetoric at the UN, its regional diplomacy is often seen as rigid and confrontational, limiting its ability to forge lasting alliances.
For Algiers, the New York initiative marks a clear attempt to pivot away from isolation and reposition itself as a relevant player in international diplomacy. Whether this renewed engagement will overcome existing tensions remains uncertain.
About The Author
