Relations between Algiers and Bamako are still strained over Algeria’s continuous “unfriendly acts” and “blatant interference” in Mali’s internal affairs. In its final communiqué, the 19th summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) included a paragraph on the Malian crisis, exacerbating tension between the two neighboring countries. “Bamako categorically rejected a text proposed by Algeria at the non-aligned summit in Kampala, Uganda. In his speech to the NAM summit, the personal representative of Assimi Goïta, head of Mali’s transitional government, Colonel Abdoulaye Maïga, Minister of State denounced Algeria “a serious breach of diplomatic practice”. These firm stands were voiced in presence of Heads of State and government of NAM countries, including Nadir Larbaoui, Algerian Prime minister and Ahmed Attaf, head of Algerian diplomacy, who were embarrassed by the Malian remarks.

Source: The North Africa Journal January 22, 2024 11:35 UTC