Algeria’s upper house of parliament has approved a proposal to send troops to neighbouring Niger. The move comes as the two countries strengthen their military cooperation and seek to protect key energy projects.
The Council of the Nation voted unanimously in favour of the proposal on Sunday, October 25, during an emergency session. According to Al Jazeera and Anadolu Agency, the planned mission would involve sending an army unit to protect oil facilities linked to Algeria’s state-owned energy company, Sonatrach.
However, the process was not yet complete. The proposal still needed approval from the lower house, the People’s National Assembly, which was expected to meet later on Sunday.
A rare move for Algeria’s military
The proposal marks a significant moment for Algeria, which has traditionally been cautious about sending troops abroad.
According to Al Jazeera, the deployment would be the first of its kind since the 1973 Arab-Israeli War, if the parliamentary process is completed.
The decision also follows growing military ties between Algiers and Niamey. Last week, Niger’s Defence Minister, General Salifou Modi, visited Algeria. During the visit, he met President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and army chief General Saïd Chanegriha.
The two countries also signed a military cooperation protocol. However, they have not made the full details of the agreement public.
Protecting energy projects
Energy security is another key factor behind the proposed deployment. Reports cited by Anadolu Agency say the troops would help protect oil projects linked to Sonatrach in Niger.
Algeria has already provided military support to its neighbour. In August, its Ministry of Defence announced that fighter jets had been sent to Niamey at the request of Nigerien authorities.
At the time, Niger said it was facing an attempt to destabilise the country.