ALGERIA SETS SIGHTS ON STRONGER MALAYSIA TIES, EXPAND MARKET ACCESS

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 5 (Bernama) -- Algeria is seeking to strengthen its strategic ties with Malaysia, as both nations look to expand economic opportunities and tap into new markets.

Speaking at a reception marking the 71st anniversary of Algeria’s Revolution Day on Tuesday night, Algeria’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Abdelhafid Bounour, said the occasion not only commemorates the country’s independence but also highlights the deepening partnership with Malaysia, driven by shared values and common positions on regional and global issues.

He said both countries are keen to broaden trade and investment, adding that there is growing interest among Malaysian and Algerian businesses to explore each other’s markets.

“It’s a very dear day for all Algerians because we celebrate our Revolution, which we fought for our independence from French colonialism. At the same time, we share this celebration with Malaysia because both countries share a lot of things on international and regional issues.

“Our bilateral relations with Malaysia are excellent, so we work together to develop our relations further,” he said.

Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kader and Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul attended the reception on behalf of the Malaysian government.

According to the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), Malaysia’s trade performance with Algeria recorded strong growth in 2024, with exports rising 27.9 per cent to RM552.1 million, driven mainly by higher shipments of palm oil and palm oil-based agricultural products.

Malaysia’s halal exports to Algeria also posted a solid increase, rising 24 per cent to RM156.3 million, led by food and beverages, cosmetics, halal-certified ingredients and palm oil-based products.

Meanwhile, Zambry also extended his congratulations to Algeria on the occasion of the country’s 71st Revolution Day.

He said the celebration symbolises the spirit of struggle and independence of the Algerian people, while further strengthening bilateral relations between Malaysia and Algeria, particularly in the field of higher education, which has seen increased student exchanges and scholarship opportunities between the two nations.

“In the education sector, Algeria has sent its students to Malaysia, and likewise, they have provided opportunities for Malaysian students to pursue studies at their universities.”

“They have also offered several scholarships for Malaysian students to continue their studies in Algeria,” he said.

According to the Ministry of Higher Education, a total of 47 Malaysian students are currently pursuing their studies in Algeria as of 2024.

-- BERNAMA