Editor's note: Imran Khalid, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is a freelance columnist on international affairs. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune is visiting China, showcasing the blossoming friendship between the two countries. During this momentous visit, Presidents Xi and Tebboune convene to craft a strategic roadmap for the advancement of China-Algeria relations. This high-level dialogue delves into a range of international and regional challenges, signifying the shared commitment to address common concerns and foster deeper collaboration between the two nations. The agenda encompasses an ambitious vision to deepen the bonds that bind these countries while addressing pertinent global and regional matters that resonate with both leaders.

Algeria's robust ties with China stand as a testament to their enduring relationship. Rooted in history, their connection traces back to the days of the Algerian War of Independence, where China played a pivotal role by extending unwavering support to the Algerian revolution. Notably, China emerged as one of the first nations to recognize the Provisional Government of the Algerian Republic, forging a bond that continues to flourish and evolve, strengthening the foundation of their bilateral cooperation. In recent years, China has emerged as the key economic partner for Algeria. The two nations have forged strong bonds through a combination of historical, political, and diplomatic factors. Notably, Algeria's participation in the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2018 further cemented their connection. China has consistently emerged as Algeria's primary commercial supplier, with an impressive average annual export value of $8 billion, underscoring the depth of their economic ties.

The bilateral partnership between China and Algeria reached new heights with the implementation of the first Five-Year Plan for Global Strategic Cooperation, which was initially signed in 2014. Building upon this success, the two nations embarked on the second Five-Year Plan in 2022, indicating their enduring commitment to collaboration. This comprehensive framework of cooperation encompasses a wide range of sectors, including the economy, trade, energy, agriculture, science and technologies, space, health, and culture, underscoring the multifaceted nature of their engagement. Algeria's reliance on China as a trusted partner for economic growth and development is a testament to the fruitful outcomes that have emerged from their deepening cooperation. The ongoing collaboration between these two countries serves as a model for mutually beneficial partnerships, leveraging their respective strengths to foster progress and prosperity. China's ascent as Algeria's primary exporter since 2013 has transformed the dynamics of trade in the region, displacing France's long-standing monopoly. Boasting the region's largest economy and significant gas and oil exports, Algeria holds a pivotal role in China's strategic interests. Presently, bilateral trade between the two countries stands at approximately $8 billion, with China exporting goods worth $7 billion to Algeria, while Algerian exports to China amount to roughly $1.2 billion. 

However, the evolving landscape offers promise for a more balanced trade equation in the future. China's active involvement in BRI projects throughout Algeria and North Africa signals an intentional effort to rectify the existing trade imbalance over time. Through strategic investments and infrastructure development, China aims to create new avenues for Algerian exports and foster sustainable economic growth in the region. As China's engagement intensifies, Algeria finds itself at the forefront of a mutually beneficial partnership that has the potential to reshape the economic landscape of North Africa. Algeria, with the tenth-largest proven natural gas reserves globally, ranks as the world's fourth-largest gas exporter, and possesses the world's third-largest untapped shale gas resources, making it a significant player in the global energy market.

Algeria has emerged as a strong contender for membership in BRICS. With its official application submitted on November 7, 2022, Algeria seeks to join this influential intergovernmental organization, which promotes economic, political, and security cooperation among its members. If successful, Algeria would be the second African country, following in the footsteps of South Africa's accession in 2011, to become a part of the BRICS alliance.

Algeria's potential membership in the BRICS holds immense implications for the nation's economic and geopolitical standing. Being part of this influential bloc would provide Algeria with enhanced avenues for economic growth, bolstered political cooperation, and access to a broader network of global partnerships. China views Algeria as a reliable and valued partner, with a deep-rooted historical connection. The two nations share a common approach to diplomacy, characterized by caution and inscrutability, and both embrace the principles of reciprocity. Algeria's significance as the largest country in Africa, strategically positioned in the Mediterranean, makes it a vital gateway to the continent. Its geostrategic location serves as a critical hub for China's ambitious BRI, further cementing the symbiotic relationship between the two nations. President Tebboune's visit catalyzes fortifying mutual trust, broadening cooperation, and forging deeper bonds between China and Algeria. This enduring friendship holds the potential to make significant strides in promoting security and stability in the Middle East and Africa while fostering unity and cooperation among developing nations.

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