Algeria, US discuss military cooperation and arms deals

A joint military dialogue between the US and Algeria to enhance cooperation in military training and arms supplies recently concluded yesterday, 6 December, despite the North African state's close ties with Moscow.

"The United States of America appreciates the continued relationship with the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria on defence matters of common interest to ensure the security of both countries," reads the press release of the US embassy in Algeria published on 5 December. 

A day prior, an Algerian delegation met in Washington with Jennifer Zakriski, US Deputy Assistant of Defense for African Affairs, to discuss cyber security, counterterrorism efforts, and information sharing.

Over two days, the Joint Military Dialogue focused on advancing a draft Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Defense Cooperation between the two states to be signed next year.

Algerian Major General Mounir Zahi led his country's delegation to the states, including officials from the Algerian Ministry of National Defence.

During the joint dialogue, a defence industry roundtable with commercial defence vendors explored the diversification of suppliers and technologically advanced systems to advance national defence objectives in partnership with Algeria. 

The Algerian Ministry of Defense budget for 2024 is over US$21.3 billion.

Algeria is the third importer of Russian weapons, while Moscow is considered the first financier of the Algerian army with weapons and military systems by more than 50%.

Algeria has maintained good military ties with the US despite its close relationship with Moscow.

Since the start of the Russia-Ukrainian war, Algeria has avoided voting on anti-Russia UN resolutions while welcoming senior officials from Washington, Moscow and European countries in an attempt to prove its neutrality.

In June, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune paid a three-day state visit to Russia despite international condemnation.

Being a key gas producer in the region has favoured the North African state's odds of negotiating a better partnership on all sides while keeping its long-standing friendship with Russia intact, according to political analyst Sofia Boulmani.