In a strategic move to strengthen India&rsquo;s defence and security relations in North Africa, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi commenced a four-day official visit to Algeria from August 25 to 28. The Ministry of Defence highlighted the visit as a continuation of India&rsquo;s high-level engagements in the region, following recent visits by the President of India and the Chief of Defence Staff.
&ldquo;The visit aims to reinforce defence and security engagement between India and Algeria, with a focus on bolstering Army-to-Army cooperation, sharing perspectives on regional and global security challenges, and exploring avenues for defence industrial collaboration,&rdquo; the Ministry said.
During his visit, General Dwivedi will meet top Algerian defence officials, including General Said Chanegriha, Minister Delegate to the Minister of National Defence &amp; Chief of Staff of the People&rsquo;s National Army, Lieutenant General Mostefa Smaali, Commander of Land Forces, and Indian Ambassador Dr Swati Kulkarni.
The COAS is also scheduled to visit key military institutions, including the School of Command and Major Staff in Tamentfoust and the prestigious Cherchell Military Academy. A ceremonial tribute at the iconic Martyrs Memorial will honour Algeria&rsquo;s struggle for independence.
This visit builds on momentum from the recent Defence Seminar in Algiers, where Indian defence industries showcased technological capabilities and explored collaboration in manufacturing and technology transfer.
The Ministry noted that the visit is expected to &ldquo;further deepen historic ties between the two nations and provide impetus to advancing shared security interests, regional stability, and defence cooperation.&rdquo; Analysts view this high-level engagement as a critical step for India&rsquo;s expanding strategic footprint across Africa amid emerging security challenges.

India Army Chief Visits Algeria to Boost Ties

General Dwivedi embarks on four-day visit to strengthen defence and security cooperation

India Army Chief Visits Algeria to Boost Ties

General Dwivedi embarks on four-day visit to strengthen defence and security cooperation

August 24, 2025 | 18:40 IST