Tunisia and Algeria strengthen defense ties with new accord

TUNIS, Tunisia (MNTV) — Tunisia and Algeria have signed a new defense cooperation agreement in Algiers to deepen coordination across multiple military fields, including training, intelligence exchange, border security, and joint operations, the Tunisian Ministry of Defense announced on Tuesday.

The accord was concluded during Defense Minister Khaled Shili’s official visit to Algeria from October 6 to 8, reinforcing a long-standing partnership and building on the original 2001 agreement between the two nations.

Officials said the new framework broadens the scope of bilateral defense collaboration, making it more responsive to shared security priorities while reinforcing mutual trust and opening new avenues for regional cooperation.

During his visit, Minister Shili met with General Saïd Chengriha, Minister Delegate to the Minister of National Defense and Chief of Staff of the Algerian People’s National Army, in the presence of senior military leaders from both countries. He also laid a wreath at the Martyrs’ Memorial in Algiers to honor national heroes.

Talks focused on strengthening bilateral mechanisms to counter regional threats such as terrorism, human trafficking, irregular migration, smuggling, and organized transnational crime.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to regular consultations and coordination through joint committees and sectoral dialogues.

Minister Shili underscored Tunisia’s readiness to expand cooperation through training and education programs, information sharing, and greater participation in military forums organized by both countries.

General Chengriha, for his part, commended the “fruitful and exemplary” partnership between Algeria and Tunisia, emphasizing that the updated defense agreement will play a key role in promoting regional stability and enhancing the operational capacity of both armies.