Algeria’s Revolution Day, celebrated annually on November 1, commemorates the beginning of Algeria's struggle for independence from French colonial rule. On this date in 1954, the National Liberation Front launched a series of coordinated attacks against French targets across Algeria, marking the start of the Algerian War of Independence.
This conflict, which lasted until 1962 when the Evian Accords were signed, was marked by intense guerrilla warfare, brutal repression by the French military, and widespread civilian casualties. The revolution ultimately led to Algeria gaining independence on July 5, 1962, officially ending 132 years of French colonial rule. The lengthy and costly struggle became a symbol of anti-colonial resistance worldwide.
“The eight-year-long bloody liberation war claimed the lives of 1.5 million Algerians,” noted Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, speaking about these events on Friday.
She noted that today, Algeria stands as a “recognized regional leader,” actively engaged in the African Union, the Arab League, and other multilateral organizations, significantly contributing to the African continent’s development and security.
Moreover, Algeria and Russia share a robust partnership, underscored by the recent Declaration on Deepened Strategic Partnership signed in June, which strengthens their collaboration across trade, economy, and cultural fields, among others, Zakharova underscored.
“On the occasion of the upcoming 70th anniversary of the revolution, we would like to wish our Algerian friends peace, prosperity, and success,” she concluded her congratulatory message.
On Friday, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune led commemorations in Algiers, including a grand military parade, to reflect on Algeria's journey to freedom. As a symbol of progress, he signed decrees for the early release of over 4,000 prisoners, covering those with common law convictions and public order offenses, media reported.
Tebboune reaffirmed the defensive role of the National People's Army, committed to national sovereignty and global peace, in line with Algeria's international obligations. He also reportedly stressed the nation's dedication to building a prosperous future despite global challenges, driven by development projects and patriotic spirit, with confidence these efforts will meet citizens' aspirations.