Algerian Army Chief Calls for National Unity Against Hostile Threats

General Saïd Chanegriha, Chief of Staff of the Algerian National People's Army (ANP), presided over a national colloquium on national defense at the Army National Circle in Béni Messous, Algiers, on June 3, 2024. The event, titled 'National Defense in the Face of Psychological Warfare,' aimed to address Algeria's defense strategies amidst ongoing geostrategic shifts and crises.

During his opening remarks, General Chanegriha emphasized the need for increased efforts by nationalist actors to counter destabilizing plans and meet the developmental challenges facing the country. He highlighted the importance of collective nationalistic endeavors to protect Algeria's stability and growth amidst evolving threats.

In his speech, General Chanegriha stated, *"In this particular regard, the efforts of all national actors must be combined, from state institutions, civil society, elites and citizens with all their categories, to achieve the various development stakes that our country has undertaken under the leadership of the President of the Republic, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and the Minister of National Defense, thereby enhancing the systemic stability of the state and confronting, with all efficiency and effectiveness, various potential hostilities."*

The colloquium was held in a complex international and regional geopolitical context characterized by transformation, crises, and the formation of new threats. The competition between current and rising powers is intensifying, with a focus on extending their influence and control over resources and wealth in the South, disregarding potential repercussions on international and regional security.

The unity of national actors against hostile designs is essential for maintaining stability and security in Algeria, which has broader implications for regional and global peace. If not addressed, these threats could lead to destabilization and conflict, affecting not only Algeria but also its neighboring countries and the international community.

The forum aimed to highlight and realize the strategic danger of using technologies associated with fifth-generation warfare, similar to malicious practices adopted in recent times. The event brought together state institutions, civil society, elites, and citizens to discuss the concept of mind war and its forms, risks, and threats.

Attendees presented programmed lectures and discussed ways to confront these threats according to a thoughtful, practical approach. The event emphasized the need for national unity to enhance systemic stability and confront potential hostilities effectively.

The national colloquium on national defense in Béni Messous, Algiers, underscored the importance of uniting national actors to counter evolving threats and ensure Algeria's stability and growth.

Key Takeaways

• Algerian General Saïd Chanegriha presided over a national colloquium on national defense.
• The event focused on countering psychological warfare and geostrategic threats.
• General Chanegriha emphasized the need for national unity to protect Algeria's stability.
• The colloquium discussed fifth-generation warfare and its risks to national security.
• National unity is crucial to enhance systemic stability and confront potential hostilities.