Algeria, Portugal Discuss Illegal Migration, Libyan Crisis

The Portuguese president receives his Algerian counterpart upon his arrival at the presidential palace in Lisbon. (AFP)
The Portuguese president receives his Algerian counterpart upon his arrival at the presidential palace in Lisbon. (AFP)
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Algeria, Portugal Discuss Illegal Migration, Libyan Crisis

The Portuguese president receives his Algerian counterpart upon his arrival at the presidential palace in Lisbon. (AFP)
The Portuguese president receives his Algerian counterpart upon his arrival at the presidential palace in Lisbon. (AFP)

Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune held talks in Lisbon on Tuesday with his Portuguese counterpart Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.

The discussions focused on developing bilateral and economic cooperation, and confronting illegal migration and terrorism in the Mediterranean region.

The Portuguese presidency said Tebboune’s visit, which kicked off on Monday, was part of efforts to “deepen the excellent bilateral ties” between their countries.

After meeting at the presidential palace, Tebboune told the press that he thoroughly discussed with his Portuguese counterpart “the situation in Libya, Mali, the Sahel, Western Sahara, and Palestinian territories, as well as what is happening between Ukraine and Russia, two friendly countries.”

He further hoped that the bilateral ties would achieve a leap in all fields, even sports.

Tebboune described the talks as “fruitful, open and honest”, adding that they highlighted the depth of the political relations and will strengthen regular political consultations, reflecting the multifaceted partnership between the two countries.

For his part, the Portuguese president said the visit will promote economic cooperation, including in renewable energy, tourism, and education, adding that it will pave the way for a new chapter of cooperation in diplomatic fields and national security.

He reiterated his country’s firm stance against terrorism and illegal migration, underlining the need for cooperation with Europe against these phenomena.

Tebboune is accompanied on his three-day visit by several businessmen who will take part in Algerian-Portuguese business forum that will be held during the trip.

The forum will tackle investment opportunities in energy, petrochemical industries, emerging institutions, tourism, and industry.

The delegation also includes the ministers of energy and mining, industry, pharmaceutical industry, trade and export promotion, public works and basic infrastructures, finance, and knowledge economy and startups.

The Algeria Press Service (APS) reported that the leaders of both countries are keen on strengthening their relations in the political and diplomatic fields, as well as boosting economic cooperation.

The Agency highlighted the major role Algeria and Portugal play in the Mediterranean, their cooperation in combating terrorism and illegal migration and consolidating stability in the region. It also noted their shared views on all regional and international issues of interest.



Lebanon Begins Clearing Beirut, Airport Road of Political Banners

Removal of a photo of former Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah (Beirut Municipality) 
Removal of a photo of former Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah (Beirut Municipality) 
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Lebanon Begins Clearing Beirut, Airport Road of Political Banners

Removal of a photo of former Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah (Beirut Municipality) 
Removal of a photo of former Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah (Beirut Municipality) 

Lebanese authorities have launched a sweeping campaign to remove political party flags, posters, and slogans from Beirut’s streets and the main road to Rafic Hariri International Airport, in a move aimed at restoring the capital’s image and promoting tourism.

The cleanup, which began early Wednesday, was ordered by Interior Minister Ahmad al-Hajjar and Beirut Governor Marwan Abboud, with municipal crews and Internal Security Forces overseeing its execution. The initiative is part of a broader government plan to improve public spaces and reflect state authority, especially in areas highly visible to visitors.

“This is about presenting a unified, civil image of Lebanon,” al-Hajjar told Asharq Al-Awsat, emphasizing that the effort aligns with the government’s commitment to assert state sovereignty and support economic recovery.

“The President pledged to restore the state’s authority, and that includes enhancing the appearance and functionality of our cities,” he added.

Starting from central Beirut and stretching along the airport highway, the operation targets all political symbols — including those of powerful groups like Hezbollah and the Amal Movement — as well as commercial billboards installed on public property.

Abboud confirmed that all major parties were informed of the decision and responded cooperatively. “There’s consensus that the capital and airport road should reflect the Lebanese state — not individual factions,” he said, adding that the airport zone must be safe and firmly under state control.

The campaign is also part of preparations for the upcoming summer tourism season, with expectations of increased arrivals from Arab countries, expatriates, and international visitors. Authorities have prioritized street lighting and infrastructure upgrades as part of the broader revitalization.

“In just a few months, we’ve gone from pleading for diesel to keep the airport running, to relighting the entire route from the city center to the terminal,” said Abboud. “We want Beirut to look like a city of joy and openness.”

Party-related imagery placed on public property along Beirut’s roads has long caused tension, often dividing neighborhoods along political lines. Security officials say the removal effort has proceeded smoothly and without resistance, marking a rare show of unity in a politically fractured country.

“The state respects everyone’s right to political activity,” a security source said. “But that no longer includes turning public space into partisan territory.”