Algerian Army Considers 'New Roadmap' for Armed Forces

Algerian Army Chief of Staff Said Chengriha (AFP)
Algerian Army Chief of Staff Said Chengriha (AFP)
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Algerian Army Considers 'New Roadmap' for Armed Forces

Algerian Army Chief of Staff Said Chengriha (AFP)
Algerian Army Chief of Staff Said Chengriha (AFP)

The Algerian military high command announced it wants to establish a strong, modern, and advanced army that meets the reputation of the "new Algeria."

The Army Chief of Staff, Said Chengriha, met in Algiers with senior army officials to discuss a "clear roadmap", according to the statement of the Defense Ministry.

Chengriha asserted that since he assumed his position, he has been keen to set a roadmap for the army, which he tried to consolidate with leaders and commanders during field visits to military units as well as his meetings with a number of officials.

He indicated he has a comprehensive vision of the tasks and roles that everyone must adhere to until establishing a strong army that can meet all challenges.

He asserted that the war on terrorism and the positive adaptation to the scientific and technological developments enabled the army to meet the challenges facing it.

Chengriha, 79, did not provide the details of the suggested roadmap, but his increased presence at the political scene over the past few months was noticeable.

He made various field visits to military facilities and gave several media statements, especially when President Abdelmadjid Tebboune traveled to Germany for treatment after testing positive for the coronavirus.

Chengriha’s media presence was seen as an indication of the army’s support to the president after several opposition forces doubted his physical ability to remain in power.

The army is still at the heart of the power struggle and the opposition forces criticize its “control over civilian power.”

Tebboune flew back to Germany on Sunday for treatment of complications in his foot resulting from a coronavirus infection, the presidency said.



Baghdad Prepares for Key Arab Summit, Eyes Broad Participation and Regional Consensus

Photo of the “Baghdad Conference for Cooperation and Partnership” held in 2021 (Reuters)
Photo of the “Baghdad Conference for Cooperation and Partnership” held in 2021 (Reuters)
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Baghdad Prepares for Key Arab Summit, Eyes Broad Participation and Regional Consensus

Photo of the “Baghdad Conference for Cooperation and Partnership” held in 2021 (Reuters)
Photo of the “Baghdad Conference for Cooperation and Partnership” held in 2021 (Reuters)

Iraq is stepping up preparations to host the Arab League Summit on May 17, expressing strong hopes that the gathering in Baghdad will lead to a unified roadmap for addressing regional and international crises.

The government reiterated its commitment to ensuring the summit’s success, highlighting Iraq’s founding role in the Arab League and the importance of Arab unity in the face of mounting geopolitical challenges.

“This summit comes at a time when the region and the world need a clear Arab stance,” a senior Iraqi official told Asharq Al-Awsat, saying Baghdad seeks that the summit produces “a framework for future cooperation and crisis management.”

While some political factions initially voiced concerns over the invitation extended to Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa, the powerful Coordination Framework coalition has softened its stance.

Coalition leader Uday Al-Khadran confirmed that all member parties support the summit, describing it as a major political and diplomatic milestone for Iraq.

“Hosting the summit reinforces Iraq’s regional standing and signals a return to its leading role in Arab affairs,” he said. Al-Khadran also emphasized that decisions regarding guest participation - such as that of the Syrian president - are the sole prerogative of the federal government.

Al-Sharaa received an official invitation last week to attend the summit, which will mark the 34th regular session of the Arab League and will be held alongside the fifth Arab Economic and Social Development Summit.

On the security front, Interior Minister Abdul Amir Al-Shammari announced that a comprehensive plan has been finalized to safeguard the event.

The ministry confirmed on Thursday that Al-Shammari met with a delegation from the office of the Arab League Secretary-General in Baghdad to review ongoing preparations.

The visiting officials praised Iraq’s efforts, reaffirming the Secretary-General’s support for the success of the summit.

On Thursday, Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid sent a formal invitation to Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman to attend the summit.

The message was delivered by Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein during a visit to Muscat. Hussein also held talks with his Omani counterpart, Badr bin Hamad Al-Busaidi, focusing on regional issues and strengthening bilateral ties.