Algeria Attempts to Convince Russia to Play a Key Role in Mali's Division (video)
Algeria's diplomatic strategy is focused on influencing the situation in Mali through collaboration with Russia. Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf highlighted a structured dialogue aimed at promoting political solutions rather than military interventions. Algeria seeks to maintain political movements in negotiations and emphasizes the need for regional stability in the Sahel.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
Recent developments in Algeria's diplomatic efforts reveal a complex strategy aimed at influencing the situation in Mali, with Russia as a key player. Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf has shed light on a series of high-level meetings between Algeria and Russia, focusing on the ongoing crisis in Mali and the broader Sahel region.
https://x.com/EAndaloucia/status/1873908235448582288
Algerian-Russian Diplomatic Mechanism
Minister Attaf disclosed the establishment of a regular diplomatic mechanism between Algeria and Russia:
"We have set up a mechanism between us and our Russian friends, a mechanism that has the nature of an institution that meets every three months and evaluates the evolution of the situation. After three or four regular meetings, this mechanism has proven itself and has allowed us to make progress in dealing with the issues."
This statement highlights Algeria's proactive approach in engaging Russia on regional matters, particularly concerning Mali.
Key Points of Algeria's Strategy
- Convincing Russia of a Political Solution: Algeria is attempting to persuade Russia that a military solution in Mali is unfeasible, citing three past failed military attempts.
- Preserving Political Movements: Attaf emphasized that Algeria will not allow or accept the transformation of political movements, which were part of the Algerian agreement, into terrorist groups.
- Future Negotiations: These groups are expected to be interlocutors in upcoming negotiations, with Attaf expressing confidence that the time for a political solution has returned.
Timeline of Significant Meetings
- July 27, 2021: Ordinary session of the Monitoring Committee for the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali.
- July 29, 2021: Follow-up session on the Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali.
- December 20, 2024: High-level diplomatic meeting in Algiers between Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and Mikhail Bogdanov, Russian President's Special Representative for the Middle East and Africa.
Analysis of Algeria's Position
Algeria's approach reflects its long-standing role as a mediator in regional conflicts, particularly in Mali[1]. The country's efforts to engage Russia demonstrate its commitment to finding a diplomatic solution to the Malian crisis, while also highlighting the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the Sahel region.
The emphasis on preventing political movements from being labeled as terrorist groups suggests Algeria's desire to maintain channels for dialogue and negotiation. This stance aligns with Algeria's historical approach to conflict resolution, which often prioritizes political solutions over military interventions[3].
Implications for Regional Stability
Algeria's diplomatic initiative with Russia could have significant implications for the future of Mali and the broader Sahel region. By seeking to influence Russia's stance, Algeria aims to shift the focus from military solutions to political negotiations, potentially altering the trajectory of the ongoing conflict[5].
However, the success of this strategy remains to be seen, as it depends on various factors, including the willingness of all parties to engage in meaningful dialogue and the evolving geopolitical interests of major powers in the region.
