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The European Union (EU) maintains a strategic relationship with Algeria, characterized by concrete initiatives and shared ambitions, but also recurring tensions. This cooperation, framed by the Association Agreement signed in 2002 and effective since 2005, covers various areas such as political dialogue, trade, energy, and governance. As 2025 approaches—a key year for reviewing bilateral relations—the EU and Algeria are seeking to strengthen their partnership while navigating economic and political challenges.

Recently, the EU Delegation in Algeria launched a call for young journalists and journalism students under the age of 30 through its Media Connect Network program. Published on social media on July 10, 2025, the call invites storytelling enthusiasts to participate in workshops, press trips, and innovative media projects. The aim is to develop their skills, foster regional collaboration, and promote inclusive and constructive narratives. Interested individuals are invited to join the network via a link available in the Delegation's bio. This initiative reflects the EU’s broader commitment to supporting youth and civil society in Algeria by encouraging a free and engaged press.

The EU is Algeria’s top trading partner, accounting for nearly two-thirds of its exports, primarily in the energy sector. Algeria, in turn, is the EU’s third-largest supplier of natural gas—a crucial role amid the global energy transition. Since 2011, the EU has allocated €273.3 million in financial aid to support Algeria’s economic diversification, renewable energy development, and governance reforms. These efforts aim to help the country reduce its dependence on hydrocarbons and promote sustainable development.

Despite progress, EU-Algeria relations are not without friction. The Association Agreement, perceived by Algeria as favoring the EU, was subject to a review request in 2015. This led to the adoption in 2017 of new partnership priorities focused on political dialogue, economic development, and security. However, European criticism regarding human rights and electoral processes in Algeria has strained the relationship. Algeria has denounced certain European Parliament resolutions as interference in its internal affairs.

In July 2025, Algeria’s inclusion on the EU list of high-risk countries for money laundering and terrorist financing, in alignment with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) "grey list" of October 2024, sparked controversy. Algerian authorities called the decision biased and accused the EU of politicizing technical matters.

Under the leadership of Ambassador Diego Miadit, the EU Delegation in Algeria emphasizes Algeria’s importance as a "strategic partner." The year 2025, marking the 20th anniversary of the Association Agreement’s implementation, presents an opportunity to review and strengthen bilateral ties. Discussions are underway to deepen cooperation in key sectors such as renewable energy, education, and regional security, while working to resolve political disputes.

In conclusion, the relationship between the EU and Algeria remains a delicate balance between fruitful cooperation and structural challenges. Initiatives such as the Media Connect Network demonstrate a commitment to youth and the future, but long-term success will depend on both parties’ ability to align priorities and overcome differences.