Relations between Russia and Algeria are of strategic nature and particular importance, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday during a state visit of Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune to Russia.
"Relations with Algeria are of particular importance for our country and are of a strategic nature," Putin said.
The president further elaborated that cooperation between Russia and Algeria within the framework of OPEC+ contributes to stabilization in the energy markets.
"I would also like to note that Russian-Algerian coordination within the framework of multilateral formats and organizations is also at a good level. Our efforts through OPEC+ and the forum of gas exporting countries contribute to the stabilization of world energy markets," Putin stated.
He also noted that constructive cooperation between the countries continues at other international venues, in particular at the UN.
Algerian President Tebboune, for his part, reiterated that the pressure of foreign states will not affect Algeria's support for Russia.
"Our relations have never changed, Algeria has always supported Russia for 60 years. Today, there is certain pressure from foreign states on us, but it will never be able to affect our relations," Tebboune said.
The Algerian leader underscored that the country managed to maintain its independence due to Russia's support with weapons.
He also expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome he had received upon arrival, noting that it demonstrates the "depth of relations and friendship between Algeria and Russia."
Speaking about cooperation between the two countries within various international platforms, Tebboune emphasized that it is necessary to accelerate the process of Algeria's accession to BRICS. He also added that it is important to work on reducing the dependence on the dollar and the euro.
"It is necessary that we accelerate the process and we become part of BRICS," the Algerian leader stressed.
Algeria applied to join the BRICS economic bloc in November last year. According to Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, Moscow welcomes the intention of Algeria to join the alliance.
As for upcoming events, the Russian president invited his Algerian counterpart to attend the second Russia-Africa summit scheduled to take place in July 26-29 in St. Petersburg.
"Looking ahead, we will be glad to see you in St. Petersburg at the end of July at the second Russia-Africa summit," Putin said during talks with Tebboune.
On June 13, Algerian President Tebboune arrived in Moscow for a three-day visit to discuss bilateral relations with the Russian leader. According to the Kremlin press service, the presidents of Russia and Algeria were set discuss the development of bilateral strategic cooperation in various fields, as well as pressing global political issues, including the situation in the Middle East and North Africa.
Following the talks, the leaders were expected to sign nine documents, including a declaration on deepening the Russian-Algerian strategic partnership, which will mark the transition of the bilateral relations to a new, advanced level.