Algeria has severed diplomatic relations with the United Arab Emirates, a decision presented as the final step after efforts to preserve bilateral ties failed.
Officials in Algiers on Thursday announced that Algeria was breaking off diplomatic relations with the United Arab Emirates, saying it had exhausted all efforts to preserve bilateral ties.
According to the Algerian Press Service (APS), which cited a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Community Abroad and African Affairs, the decision marks a new major crisis between the two countries.
The Algerian authorities described the move as the culmination of a process in which all attempts to maintain dialogue had failed.
No precise timetable has been announced, however, regarding the immediate consequences of the decision, including the operation of diplomatic missions, economic exchanges or the situation of nationals of the two countries.
The announcement comes amid growing disagreements between Algiers and Abu Dhabi over several geopolitical issues. Diverging positions on Libya, the Sahel, the balance of power in the Maghreb, as well as the diplomatic rapprochements pursued by the UAE with certain regional partners, had fuelled persistent mistrust. In recent years, Algerian officials had repeatedly criticised Abu Dhabi, pointing to a continued deterioration in relations.
Economically, the rupture could undermine prospects for cooperation in several sectors, including energy, infrastructure, finance and investment.
The UAE is among the Gulf’s most influential investors, while Algeria is officially seeking to attract more foreign capital to diversify an economy that remains heavily dependent on hydrocarbons. The future of ongoing projects remains uncertain.
Beyond the UAE, the decision comes amid a broader period of diplomatic tensions involving several foreign partners.
Following crises with Morocco and France, the latest rupture reinforces the image of an increasingly confrontational foreign policy, against a backdrop of major geopolitical realignments across the region.
MK/AK/lb/as/APA