General Upendra Dwivedi's Strategic Visit to Algeria: Strengthening India’s Defence Ties

General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of Army Staff, is on a four-day visit to Algeria to enhance defence ties between India and Algeria. This visit aims to strengthen military cooperation, address regional security challenges, and explore defence industrial collaboration. General Dwivedi will meet key Algerian defence officials and visit important military institutions, reinforcing the historic ties between the two nations. This engagement is part of India's broader strategy to expand its influence in Africa amidst evolving security dynamics. Discover more about the significance of this visit and its implications for India-Algeria relations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 24, 2025, 13:58 IST

General Upendra Dwivedi's Official Visit to Algeria

New Delhi: In a pivotal move to enhance India’s defence and strategic partnerships with North Africa, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi has commenced a four-day official trip to Algeria from August 25 to 28, as announced by the Ministry of Defence on Sunday.

This visit follows closely on the heels of recent trips made by the President of India and the Chief of Defence Staff, highlighting the significance placed on fortifying India-Algeria relations.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the purpose of this visit is to strengthen defence and security cooperation between India and Algeria, emphasizing Army-to-Army collaboration, sharing insights on regional and global security issues, and investigating opportunities for defence industrial partnerships.

During his stay, General Dwivedi is scheduled to meet with prominent Algerian defence officials, including General Said Chanegriha, the Minister Delegate to the Minister of National Defence and Chief of Staff of the People’s National Army, Lieutenant General Mostefa Smaali, Commander of Land Forces, and Dr. Swati Kulkarni, the Indian Ambassador to Algeria.

He will also tour several significant military institutions, such as the School of Command and Major Staff in Tamentfoust and the Cherchell Military Academy, one of Algeria’s leading training facilities. A ceremonial tribute will be paid at the renowned Martyrs Memorial, honoring Algeria’s fight for independence.

This visit builds on the momentum from the recent Defence Seminar held in Algiers from July 30 to August 1, 2025, where Indian defence industries showcased their technological advancements and explored collaboration opportunities in defence manufacturing and technology transfer.

The Ministry emphasized that the COAS’s visit is anticipated to further strengthen the historic bonds between the two countries and advance shared security interests, regional stability, and defence cooperation.

As India broadens its strategic presence across Africa, this high-level military engagement with Algeria is viewed as a crucial step in reinforcing India’s partnerships in the region, particularly in response to evolving security dynamics and the necessity for multilateral defence collaboration.