Algeria and Chad prioritize trans-saharan road segments in N’Djamena talks

Algeria’s Minister of Public Works and Basic Infrastructure, Abdelkader Djellaoui, embarked on a crucial two-day working visit to the Republic of Chad this Wednesday, leading a high-level delegation. The primary objective was to explore effective strategies for implementing joint infrastructure initiatives, with a particular focus on the ambitious Trans-Saharan Road project.

This visit directly follows directives from Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and builds upon discussions held during the recent visit of the Chadian President to Algeria. It underscores a shared commitment to fostering tangible and practical bilateral cooperation, ultimately driving development in both nations.

Minister Djellaoui, accompanied by Abed Hallouz, the Director General of the Algerian Agency for International Cooperation for Solidarity and Development (AICA), arrived at Hassan Djamous International Airport in N’Djamena on Wednesday evening. Chadian Minister of Infrastructure, Disenclavement, and Road Maintenance, Amir Idriss Kourda, along with several Chadian officials, extended a warm welcome to the Algerian delegation.

The Algerian contingent comprises over 14 seasoned experts and engineers, marking their second visit to the Republic of Chad. Their mission is to advance the technical assessment initiated during their previous trip. Notable members include the CEOs of “Cosider travaux publics” and the National Public Works Company (SNTP), as well as the Director General of the National Technical Control Body for Public Works (CTTP).

The public works sector stands as a cornerstone of cooperation between Algeria and Chad, serving as a vital catalyst for economic integration. Algeria maintains a strong interest in the Trans-Saharan Road project, recognizing its strategic importance as a durable link connecting the economies of both countries and the broader region. Consequently, this visit is largely dedicated to the concrete realization of two specific sections of the Trans-Saharan Road within Chadian territory, which are deemed essential components of this continental artery.

Leveraging the extensive experience its national enterprises have gained in constructing major road infrastructure, particularly in challenging Saharan environments, Algeria is offering its technical expertise and capabilities to this monumental project. This collaborative effort aims to bring about a significant transformation and invigorate regional trade exchanges.

Expectations are high that this visit will yield concrete outcomes, substantially strengthening Algero-Chadian cooperation in the critical areas of infrastructure and public works.