BY: Dr. Hana Saada
Algerian and Rwandan Military Leaders Discuss Security Challenges and Strengthen Defense Ties
Algiers, Algeria | April 22nd, 2025 — On Tuesday in Algiers, General Saïd Chanegriha, the Minister Delegate to the Minister of National Defense and Chief of Staff of the Algerian People’s National Army (ANP), hosted General Moubarak Muganga, the Chief of Defense Staff of Rwanda, during a high-level official visit to Algeria. The two leaders, accompanied by senior military delegations, held discussions focused on enhancing bilateral military cooperation and addressing common security challenges.
Strategic Defense Cooperation in Focus
The meeting provided a platform for both parties to explore avenues for expanding and strengthening military cooperation between Algeria and Rwanda. They discussed strategies to improve coordination on security matters and outlined ways to tackle the evolving security challenges facing Africa and the world at large. The discussions also touched upon regional stability and the importance of mutual support between African nations in addressing security issues.
Solid Historical Relations and Political Solidarity
In his remarks, General Chanegriha emphasized the deep-rooted ties between Algeria and Rwanda, citing the two nations’ shared commitment to supporting each other on the international stage. He highlighted the long-standing solidarity between the peoples of the two countries, which has been manifested in political cooperation and mutual support in various international forums.
“Since the independence of our two nations, Algeria and Rwanda have maintained exemplary relations, founded on political coordination for the defense of Africa and its core issues. In recent years, our bilateral relations have taken on new momentum, particularly following the visit of the Rwandan Defense Chief to Algeria in September 2022 and our visit to Kigali in February 2024,” said General Chanegriha.
Honoring the Memory of the Rwandan Genocide
General Chanegriha also took a moment to honor the victims of the 1994 Rwandan genocide, which marked its 31st anniversary in April. Expressing solidarity with the people of Rwanda, he said, “On the occasion of your commemoration of the 31st anniversary of the 1994 genocide, I stand in solidarity with the Rwandan people to remember and pray for the souls of the victims of this national tragedy. Rwanda has successfully overcome the effects of this dark chapter and has advanced toward national reconciliation, achieving a comprehensive renaissance that has become a model for Africa.”
Strengthening Future Cooperation
General Muganga, for his part, expressed his appreciation for the warm reception extended to him and his delegation, noting the Algerian side’s strong commitment to enhancing cooperation and dialogue between the two countries. He stressed the importance of mutual collaboration to ensure security and stability across the African continent.
At the conclusion of the meeting, both leaders exchanged symbolic gifts as a gesture of goodwill and strengthened partnership. General Muganga also signed the guestbook at the Algerian Army’s General Staff, marking the significance of this diplomatic visit.
