Reducing tension

The more or less direct or indirect gestures and messages between the leaders of the two great North African neighbours, Morocco and Algeria, are more than relevant when it comes to analysing the state of relations and, above all, the path they can follow. King Mohammed VI of Morocco once again extended his hand for understanding and reconciliation with Algeria during his speech at the Throne Festival on 30 July. 

Now, in the editorial of the latest issue of the Algerian army magazine, El Djeich, we can read the reference to the statement by General Saïd Chengriha, Chief of the General Staff, that the latest weapons systems acquired and in some cases displayed during the Algerian independence parade are exclusively for the defence of the country. 

This message is seen as a desire to lower the tension that in recent weeks had risen too high, not only politically but also militarily. The interpretations of various centres of analysis indicate that the tension caused by the possible establishment of Algerian missiles near the border with Morocco or the announcement of manoeuvres with Russia just 50 kilometres from Moroccan territory is giving way to a certain calm because it could be possible that the Algerian military leadership has now decided to return to normal relations with its Moroccan neighbour. 

This would be great news for the citizens of both countries, who would benefit greatly from an agreement that would restore relations and open the border between the two countries, boost economic and trade cooperation and their interests vis-à-vis the EU, and unblock negotiations within the United Nations to reach a solution to the Sahara conflict.

We cannot jump the gun prematurely; real political will and interest are needed, but the positive consequences of an understanding between Algeria and Morocco are obvious. 

At such a turbulent time in the world, with the Russian invasion of Ukraine and its consequences for Europe and the United States, or the tension with China over Taiwan, reducing tension in North Africa would be a key element of stability, security and progress. 

If we look at the United States, the crisis opened by Donald Trump and his attacks on the system to avoid his responsibilities to justice represents an even more complicated threat than the crises with Russia and China. Trump has a lot of explaining and accountability to do - classified documents he took from the White House, some on nuclear weapons deployment, his unreleased tax returns, or financial engineering on the value of his companies..... Undoubtedly, the greatest threat we face is that unscrupulous populists will come to power using democracy and then use it for their own interests.