Mon Aug 25 17:48:37 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi visited Algeria to bolster defence ties. Discussions focused on training exchanges, joint capability development, defence-industrial cooperation (particularly anti-drone systems and niche technologies), and Algeria’s modernization needs. Algeria’s strategic importance to India lies in its energy resources, military capabilities, and shared views on regional and global issues, including counter-terrorism. The visit aims to establish a long-term defence partnership based on shared principles like sovereignty and non-alignment.

**News Article:**

**India Strengthens Defence Ties with Algeria Amid Growing Strategic Partnership**

**New Delhi, August 25, 2025** – Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi concluded an official visit to Algeria today, signaling India’s commitment to deepening defence cooperation with the North African nation. The visit, General Dwivedi’s first overseas engagement since Operation Sindoor, saw high-level talks with Algerian military leadership, including Lieutenant General Mostefa Smaali, Commander of the Land Forces.

Discussions centered on several key areas, including training exchanges for senior officers, collaborative development of defence capabilities, and expanding defence-industrial cooperation. According to sources, India is uniquely positioned to support Algeria’s military modernization, particularly in the areas of anti-drone systems, niche technologies, training, and maintenance.

Algeria’s strategic importance to India extends beyond defence. The energy-rich nation possesses significant oil, gas, and critical mineral resources and boasts a capable military with a history of regional mediation. Sources indicate that Algeria’s role within the African Union and its pro-South stance align well with India’s foreign policy objectives.

While Algeria maintains traditional ties with Russia, China, and Pakistan, a growing convergence of interests is emerging with India. Notably, Algeria condemned the recent Pahalgam terror attack, highlighting counter-terrorism as a shared priority.

General Dwivedi’s visit is expected to pave the way for a long-term defence partnership, strengthening cooperation between the two armies and reinforcing shared principles of sovereignty, non-alignment, and South-South cooperation. This move underscores India’s strategic focus on the Maghreb-Sahel-Mediterranean region.

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