Lounès Magramane: Algeria Reaffirms Firm Opposition to Terrorism, Kidnappings and Ransom Payments
Following the release of German national Eli Maskan Sinan, abducted in Niger by an armed criminal group, Algeria says the operation underscores its regional security role and longstanding commitment to mediation, dialogue and the protection of human life.
By Dr. Hana Saada
Published: August 10, 2026
ALGIERS — Algeria will remain firmly opposed to all forms of violent extremism, criminal and terrorist activity, kidnapping and ransom payments, Foreign Ministry Secretary-General Lounès Magramane said Monday, stressing that the country’s security and diplomatic priorities are closely tied to the stability of its neighbours.
Speaking at a press conference at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the presence of Germany’s ambassador to Algeria and German national Eli Maskan Sinan, recently released after being abducted and held in Niger by an armed criminal group, Magramane said Algeria’s position was shaped by its experience and history in confronting terrorism and complex security challenges.
“Everything that harms neighbouring countries inevitably affects us,” Magramane said, stressing that the security, stability and prosperity of brotherly and friendly countries remain central to Algeria’s political and diplomatic agenda, in line with the directives of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.
The official said the German national’s release marked the culmination of efforts by several Algerian state institutions, particularly security services operating under the Ministry of National Defence. He expressed his “thanks and recognition” to those involved in bringing the operation to a successful conclusion.
Following his reception by the Algerian authorities, officials ensured that Sinan’s health was assessed and that German authorities were kept informed of the different stages of the operation, through to his return to his country and family.
A continuation of Algeria’s mediation role
Magramane described the operation as part of a broader record of Algerian efforts to secure the release of hostages and address complex regional crises through mediation, dialogue and consultation.
He said previous operations of a similar nature had demonstrated Algeria’s recognised role in facilitating solutions to difficult situations, particularly in the wider Sahel-Saharan region, where security challenges frequently transcend national borders.
Beyond its security dimension, Magramane presented the operation as reflecting Algeria’s humanitarian commitment to protecting human life and preserving human dignity, regardless of an individual’s nationality or location.
The latest release therefore places renewed emphasis on Algeria’s regional approach, combining opposition to terrorism, kidnapping and ransom financing with diplomatic engagement and mediation.
Magramane also reiterated Algeria’s rejection of the payment of ransoms, a position the country has consistently advocated at the international level, arguing that ransom payments contribute to the financing of criminal and terrorist groups.
The operation, he said, ultimately reflects Algeria’s broader commitment to regional security and stability and to the peaceful resolution of crises through dialogue and cooperation.
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