Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf expressed concern over the fact that pivotal issues in the Maghreb region, such as the Libyan crisis and the Saharan coastal zone, are often discussed by external actors rather than the directly involved countries.
He disclosed plans for a tripartite summit between Libya, Tunisia, and Algeria, slated to convene in Tripoli within three months.
Attaf's remarks came during a press conference aimed at sharing the outcomes of the inaugural consultative meeting held at the Carthage Palace in Tunisia.
The meeting brought together Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, Tunisian President Kais Saied, and Libyan Presidential Council President Muhammad Menfi last Monday.
Attaf made it clear that the consultative meeting among the three leaders in Tunisia was not aimed at any specific party, but rather at fostering open dialogue. He reiterated the enduring importance of the Arab Maghreb Union as a historical aspiration, highlighting Algeria's unwavering commitment to its preservation and promotion of collaboration.
The Algerian diplomat stressed the importance of his country, as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, to understand the perspectives of its Maghreb counterparts on issues discussed at the Security Council, particularly those with direct implications for the region.
Minister Attaf underscored the positive outcomes of the first consultative meeting among the leaders of Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya, particularly in the political arena. He commended the genuine and frank discussions that transpired at the Tunis summit, culminating in a joint statement addressing four crucial areas that significantly impact citizens' well-being: border area development, energy, food security, and trade exchange facilitation.