Algeria’s parliament voted to send troops to Niger to protect oil sites. This is the country's first foreign military deployment since 1973.
Algeria’s upper house of parliament voted to send troops to Niger. All members supported the plan during a special session. This decision marks a major shift in Algerian foreign policy.
The national constitution requires a two-thirds majority in both houses for such actions. The president holds the power to send forces abroad after this vote. Lawmakers in the lower house will meet soon to complete the process.
Meanwhile, this mission would be historic for the country. Algeria has not deployed troops outside its borders since 1973. That year, the nation participated in the October War.
Also, the military units have a specific goal. They plan to protect important oil facilities within Niger. This mission aims to keep energy infrastructure safe from harm.
Next, the decision follows recent meetings between high-ranking officials. Niger’s Defence Minister General Salifou Modi traveled to Algeria last week. He spoke with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and the Chief of Staff.
After that visit, both nations signed a new military cooperation agreement. Officials kept the specific details of this deal private. However, the move signals closer ties between the two neighbors.
Earlier this year, Algeria assisted Niger during a time of crisis. President Tebboune confirmed that fighter jets arrived in Niamey in late August. These planes helped stop a coup attempt against the government.
Furthermore, the Algerian Ministry of Defence provided more details on that support. They sent four Sukhoi Su-30 aircraft to the capital. A refueling plane accompanied these jets to ensure they reached their destination safely.
Finally, the two countries are growing much closer. They have improved their political and economic relations significantly. Both nations now work together to maintain stability in the region.