In recent events, the assertion made by Algeria’s “Radio Algeria” regarding a purported 15 million euro budget provided by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to fund media campaigns tarnishing Algeria’s image in the Sahel region appears to mark the initiation of a strategic maneuver.
This strategic move is aimed at addressing internal crises concurrent with the presidential elections, placing accusations on both Rabat and Abu Dhabi for colluding in orchestrating deleterious media campaigns against Algeria.
Persistent rumors persist, strategically targeting the undermining of Morocco’s regional standing, which has notably strengthened diplomatic ties with the UAE in recent years. Conversely, the UAE has been expanding its influence across the African continent, engaging in mining ventures in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, military partnerships in Somalia, and sustainable energy projects in Nigeria.
International reports indicate that the Morocco-UAE alliance is creating impediments for Algeria, as the UAE solidifies its position as a key ally of the United States in counterterrorism efforts, while Algeria’s alignment with Russia and Iran further complicates the geopolitical landscape.
The recently unveiled Royal Initiative to open the Atlantic front for African engagement has intensified regional tensions. A meeting held between Morocco’s Foreign Minister, Nasser Bourita, and counterparts from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger aimed at fortifying access for Sahel countries to the Atlantic Ocean, fostering collaborative efforts among southern nations.
Observations from experts indicate immediate regional consequences, particularly concerning Morocco’s regional policy. The intentions of the UAE and Morocco to counter Algeria’s position in the Sahel were discernible before the diplomatic incident on December 22. Subsequent diplomatic clashes between Algeria and Mali on December 22, about alleged ties between Moroccan diplomats and Tuareg rebels associated with the Azawad independence movement, have intensified the geopolitical landscape in the region.
Within this intricate scenario, where alliances and conflicts intricately intertwine, the North African nations navigate a complex diplomatic landscape. As they grapple with internal challenges, they concurrently endeavor to secure their positions on the international stage.