Including Iran and Saudi Arabia.. 6 new countries join as full members of the "BRICS"

Including Iran and Saudi Arabia.. 6 new countries join as full members of the "BRICS"

    Thursday, August 24, 2023   No comments

Today, Thursday, 6 countries joined as full members of the "BRICS" group, namely Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

The Final declaration states:

91. We have decided to invite the Argentine Republic, the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to become full members of BRICS from 1 January 2024.  

In the details, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said, during his participation in the activities of the third day of the "BRICS" group, that his country had agreed to join Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the UAE as full members.

For his part, Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated the new countries, saying: "I congratulate the new members of BRICS, and we promise the other members who wish to join, to open the door for them at the next summit."

Putin added, "It was a rich and important summit, and I congratulate all heads of state on the spirit of cooperation," calling for more cooperation, solidarity, and work towards development.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India supports the development and expansion of BRICS.

Modi pointed out that the development of the group is "a message that the whole world must hear," and it is an example of the amendments that must be made in various institutions.

In turn, Chinese President Xi Jinping said that the BRICS countries "have great influence and are responsible for establishing peace and stability in the world."

He also congratulated the countries that joined the "BRICS" and that made their decision to deal with developed and emerging countries, according to him.

During the speeches of the leaders of the countries at the closing session of the "BRICS" summit, Brazilian President Lula da Silva said that there is a one-sided world that threatens diversity and pluralism.

Lula added that the world is suffering from economic recession and lack of food security, saying: "We seek to reach a more just world."

For his part, the President of the UAE, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, expressed his appreciation for the BRICS group's agreement to include his country in the group.

Bin Zayed said, in a tweet on the "X" platform, "We appreciate the agreement of the leaders of the BRICS group to include the United Arab Emirates in this important group."

He continued, "We look forward to working together for the prosperity and benefit of all countries and peoples of the world."

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi confirmed today, Thursday, that "the expansion of the BRICS group shows that the unilateral approach is on its way to disappearing."

Raisi, during his meeting with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping, stressed that Iran's accession to the "BRICS" group would strengthen the bloc's opposition to American hegemony.

In a speech at the conclusion of the 15th BRICS summit, Raisi affirmed that Tehran supports the group's efforts to abandon the dollar in financial transactions, adding that "BRICS opens new horizons, and it is a way towards building a multipolar world."

Likewise, the Iranian president praised the decision of BRICS members to expand the group, which "provides grounds for continuing international development in a more equitable manner."

In his speech, the Iranian president reiterated his country's rejection of "all discriminatory and racist policies by the Israeli occupation against the Palestinian people."

For his part, Chinese President Xi Jinping said that his country is "ready to strengthen cooperation with Iran, within the framework of the BRICS group and other multilateral blocs."

On the sidelines of a BRICS leaders' summit in South Africa, Xi told Raisi that Beijing "is willing to strengthen friendship and deepen mutual trust with the Iranian side, and continue to support each other on issues of common core interests."

Another senior Iranian official welcomed his country's admission to the "BRICS" group of emerging countries, which so far includes Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, describing it as a "strategic success" for its foreign policy.

"Permanent membership in the Global Emerging Economies Group is a historic event and a strategic success for the Islamic Republic's foreign policy," Mohammad Jamshidi, political advisor to Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, wrote on the X platform.

For his part, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed praised the BRICS announcement of his country's accession to the group.

"This is a great moment for Ethiopia as BRICS leaders endorse us joining this group today," Abiy Ahmed said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

He added that his country is ready to cooperate with everyone for a comprehensive and prosperous world order.

The activities of the fifteenth international meeting of the BRICS 2023 summit began on Tuesday in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Yesterday, the leaders of the "BRICS" summit declared, in its second meeting, its firm stand against hegemony and neo-colonialism.

The leaders of 4 countries are participating in the summit personally, and they are Chinese President Xi Jinping, Brazilian President Lula da Silva, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, while Russian President Vladimir Putin participates, via video technology, while the Russian delegation is headed. Participant in the summit, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

The announcement of the final statement of the “BRICS” summit … details affecting the United Nations and the Security Council to give more democracy and effectiveness to the organization

In their closing statement issued today, Thursday, the BRICS leaders expressed concern about the use of unilateral measures that negatively affect developing countries.

The BRICS leaders supported reforms in the United Nations, including the Security Council, in order to make the organization more democratic and effective.

The text of the final statement following the summit currently held in Johannesburg, South Africa, stated: “We express our concern about the use of unilateral coercive measures, which are inconsistent with the principles of the United Nations Charter and lead to negative consequences, especially in developing countries.”

He added, “We reaffirm our commitment to strengthening and improving global governance by promoting a more flexible, effective and efficient system … a democratic and accountable multilateral international system.”

According to the declaration: “We call for increased participation of emerging markets and developing countries in international organizations and multilateral forums.”

According to the declaration, the BRICS countries support the continuation of cooperation within the bloc to enhance the interconnection of supply chains and payment systems.

And the statement continued: “We reaffirm that openness, efficiency, stability and reliability are essential to addressing economic recovery and stimulating international trade and investment. We call for more cooperation between the BRICS countries to enhance the interconnection between supply chains and payment systems in order to stimulate trade and investment flows.

"The leaders of the BRICS group reaffirm their support for the establishment of an open and fair international trade system based on the rules of the World Trade Organization," the statement said.

In the statement, BRICS stressed the need to solve the Iranian nuclear problem through peaceful and diplomatic means, and in accordance with international law.

The statement added, "We call for strengthening arms control and non-proliferation, including the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production and Stockpiling of Bacteriological (Biological) and Toxin Weapons and on Their Destruction, and the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction."

“We stress the importance of encouraging the use of national currencies in international trade and financial transactions, whether within the BRICS countries or with trading partners,” the statement said.

The statement added: “We call on the space agencies of the BRICS countries to continue to increase the level of cooperation in the field of exchanging data via satellites and their applications in order to provide information support for the economic and social development of the BRICS countries.”

And the statement continued: “We recall our national positions regarding the conflict in and around Ukraine, which were expressed in relevant forums, including the UN Security Council and the UN General Assembly. We note with appreciation the offers of mediation and the special good offices in this matter aimed at resolving the conflict by peaceful means through dialogue and diplomacy, including the peace mission undertaken by African leaders, and the proposed path to peace.

"Recognizing that BRICS countries produce a third of the world's food, we reaffirm our commitment to strengthening cooperation in agriculture and developing sustainable agriculture for BRICS countries to improve food security within BRICS countries and around the world," the statement added.

According to the statement: “BRICS countries appreciate the great interest shown by the countries of the Global South in BRICS membership.”

"We stress the need to help countries going through the post-conflict stage for recovery and development, and we call on the international community to help countries achieve their development goals," the statement said.

The document stated that “Brazil, India, China and South Africa express their full support for Russia, regarding its presidency of the “BRICS” group, in 2024, and the holding of the sixteenth “BRICS” summit in the Russian city of Kazan.

Days after Iranian officials unveiled new weapons systems, Military officials visit Russia

Days after Iranian officials unveiled new weapons systems, Military officials visit Russia

    Wednesday, August 23, 2023   No comments

Ten years ago, Russia cancelled many deals with Iran to honor Western sanctions on Iran. Today, Russia is more eager than Iran to expand military cooperation. These are signs of dramatic changes around the world not all of the consequences of which will be experienced immediately, but will change the world in the long run.

Russian Deputy Defense Minister of the Russian Federation Aleksandr Fomin meets with Commander of the Iranian Army's Ground Forces Kioumars Heydari

 

Today, on 23 August 2023, Russian Deputy Defense Minister of the Russian Federation Colonel General Aleksandr Fomin has met with Commander of the Iranian Army's Ground Forces Brigadier General Kioumars Heydari.

 

The sides discussed bilateral military and military-technical cooperation.

 They also exchanged views on bilateral security issues and reaffirmed their commitment to deepening dialogue and increasing the level of development of contacts in the defense sphere. 

Iranian Deputy Defense Minister Brigadier General Reza Talaei Nik pointed to the increase in Iran's exports of military weapons to other countries, and said that Iran was an importer of military weapons, but now it is among the 10 largest countries in the world in defense industries.

In a statement to the Defense Industries Day on August 22, a spokesman for the Iranian Ministry of Defense explained, “Before the revolution, 90% of our weapons and equipment were imported and we were dependent on several major countries, but now more than 90% of the weapons are more advanced than they were.” In the past, it was made in Iran. And 90% of dependence on the outside turned into 90% of self-reliance.

He added: We have now been able to achieve great leaps in the industry despite the sanctions, and he said, 80 defense systems are being produced by local defense industries.

He continued: Before the revolution, we had 31 local military products, but now more than 80 defense systems are produced by local defense industries, and each defense system has sub-systems.

He referred to the ability to export military equipment to other countries, and said: We were once the main importer of military products, but in the past year, the export of military products tripled, and more than 28 talks and visits were held by foreign delegations.

He said: Although these countries are not involved in any war, they buy because they are likely to be threatened and believe that the most advanced weapons are available to certain countries, and Iran is among the top ten countries in the world in defense industries.

He continued: We are heading towards producing hypersonic cruise missiles, and this step is very new and will increase our operational and defensive strength.

Media Review, BILD: Russia, Türkiye and Qatar are preparing a new agreement to replace the grain deal

Media Review, BILD: Russia, Türkiye and Qatar are preparing a new agreement to replace the grain deal

    Friday, August 18, 2023   No comments

 Russia, Türkiye and Qatar are preparing a new agreement to replace the grain deal, BILD,  reports.

The media leaked memos between the Foreign Ministry and the embassies of Russia and Turkey from July 21 to August 8.

The letters say the Kremlin informed Erdogan in advance of its withdrawal from the grain deal. The new agreement considers the supply of Russian grain to poor countries, mainly Africa. Türkiye will act as an organizer, Qatar as a sponsor of supplies.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan asks Russia to resume the previous grain deal, so that grain is also supplied from Ukraine. Ankara also proposes to act under the auspices of the UN.

The deal is expected to close this weekend in Budapest. It is reported that the head of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov is flying to Budapest, where Erdogan is also going.

Amir Abdullahian after meeting Ibn Salman in Jeddah: Our talks were frank and fruitful--The Saudi Crown Prince after the meeting: a review of ways to develop relations

Amir Abdullahian after meeting Ibn Salman in Jeddah: Our talks were frank and fruitful--The Saudi Crown Prince after the meeting: a review of ways to develop relations

    Friday, August 18, 2023   No comments

Today, the Saudi Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, received the Iranian Foreign Minister, Hussein Amir Abdullahian, in the city of Jeddah, in the first meeting of the de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia with Iranian officials since the resumption of relations between the two regional powers last March.

Abdullahian began a one-day visit to Saudi Arabia, before Saudi and Iranian officials confirmed that he would meet the crown prince on Friday. The Saudi Foreign Ministry said that the crown prince and the Iranian minister reviewed relations "and future opportunities for cooperation between the two countries and ways to develop them." They also discussed "developments in the situation on the regional and international arenas, and the efforts exerted towards them." The Iranian News Agency (IRNA) said that it was the first time that a high-ranking Iranian official had met the Saudi crown prince. Amir Abdullahian is accompanied on his visit to Riyadh by the new Iranian ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Ali Reza Enayati, according to the same agency.

The Iranian Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir Abdullahian, met the Saudi Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, in the Saudi city of Jeddah.

And the Saudi Press Agency, "SPA", stated that Prince Abdullahian and Ibn Salman discussed future opportunities for cooperation between their two countries and ways to develop them, adding that they "discussed developments in regional and international situations, and efforts made towards them."

After the meeting, the Iranian foreign minister said that the meeting was "frank, fruitful and useful," in which "it was stressed that security and development are everyone's right."

Amir Abd Allahian stressed that "the issue of Palestine and Jerusalem is the focus of issues in the Islamic world," noting that "relations must be developed to serve the region."

He added, "The Saudi Crown Prince sent his greetings to the Leader of the Revolution and the Islamic Republic, Sayyed Ali Khamenei."

Likewise, the Iranian Foreign Ministry quoted, in a statement, the Saudi Crown Prince Bin Salman: "These meetings have a fundamental impact on developing and consolidating bilateral and multilateral relations."

She added that the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia "considered the meeting of the leaders of the two countries very important," pointing out that he confirmed his invitation to President Ibrahim Raisi to visit the Kingdom.

The Iranian Foreign Ministry also stated that bin Salman stressed that relations with Tehran are "strategic," noting that the kingdom "enjoys serious determination in this context."

 The meeting was attended by the Iranian ambassador to Riyadh, Ali Reza Enayati. As for the Saudi side, the Foreign Minister, Faisal bin Farhan, attended.

Yesterday, Thursday, Amir Abdollahian arrived in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, and the visit focused on bilateral relations, and regional and international issues, according to what was reported by the Iranian state TV, "Irib".

The Iranian Foreign Minister held a joint press conference with his Saudi counterpart, Faisal bin Farhan, and Amir Abdullahian said that the two sides affirmed "the determination to strengthen and develop relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia in all fields."

Amir Abdollahian added that the idea of holding a regional dialogue at the level of the Gulf region had been proposed, "in continuation of the previous talks with Saudi Arabia."

The Iranian minister said, "We are extending a hand of cooperation to neighboring countries, and we are now pursuing a correct path in improving relations with these countries," expressing his hope that "the idea of achieving security and development in the region cannot be divided."

For his part, Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan said that he had assured his Iranian counterpart "the kingdom's keenness to activate previous agreements between the two countries, especially those related to security and economic aspects."

The Saudi foreign minister also stressed the importance of "raising the level of cooperation and coordination between the two countries."

Amir Abdullahian's visit, the first by an Iranian foreign minister in more than 10 years, comes two months after Ibn Farhan's visit to Tehran, which was the first by a Saudi foreign minister since 2006, where they held talks on security, economy, tourism and transportation issues.

And last week, the Saudi embassy in Tehran resumed its activities, according to Iranian official media, while Riyadh did not confirm this, or name an ambassador to Tehran.

Iranian media attributed the delay in reopening the Saudi embassy to the poor condition of the building, which was damaged during the 2016 demonstrations, after the Saudi authorities executed the Shiite cleric, Sheikh Nimr Nimr.

After the two countries agreed to resume diplomatic relations and reopen their embassies, with Chinese mediation, Iran reopened its embassy in Riyadh on June 6.

Tehran appointed its former ambassador to Kuwait, Ali Reza Enayati, as its new ambassador to Riyadh. This week, Amir Abdollahian told reporters that Enayati would accompany him on his trip to Saudi Arabia, "to officially begin his duties."

Two days ago, Enayati confirmed that Tehran is looking forward to consolidating the economic component in bilateral relations with Riyadh, noting that the normalization of relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia "will open many horizons" for the two countries and the region.

Amir Abdullahian: Ibn Salman accepted Iran's invitation to visit her...and the region entered a new phase

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian said, during his return to Tehran from Riyadh, that Iran had invited Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to visit it, "and he accepted the invitation, and he will plan it at the appropriate time."

He also pointed out that King Salman bin Abdulaziz also invited President Ibrahim Raisi to visit Riyadh, "and the latter accepted the invitation and will fulfill it at the appropriate time."

The Iranian minister also added that Saudi Arabia affirmed its different vision from the past, and expressed "its willingness to open a new page in relations between Tehran and Riyadh."

He added, "The region has entered a new phase of cooperation, because there is a consensus that the region can progress and develop by relying on itself."

He stated that it was agreed with the Saudis "to enhance cooperation in various economic, commercial and tourism fields in the private and public sectors."

He stated that bin Salman had taken a decision according to which he asked Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan, "to take initial steps to prepare a framework for a document for long-term cooperation between the two countries, so that it can be signed during the visits of senior officials."

A senior official in “NATO”: Ukraine can join the alliance if it cedes part of its territory to Russia, and Medvedev, Kiyv respond

A senior official in “NATO”: Ukraine can join the alliance if it cedes part of its territory to Russia, and Medvedev, Kiyv respond

    Wednesday, August 16, 2023   No comments

 The Director of the Office of the Secretary General of NATO, Stian Jensen, said today, Tuesday, that “Ukraine can obtain membership in the alliance in return for ceding part of its territory to Russia.”

"I think that one of the solutions that enables Ukraine to obtain membership in NATO is to give up parts of it," the Norwegian newspaper "Verdens Gang" quoted Jensen as saying.

In response to a question by the newspaper whether the alliance believes that Ukraine should cede territories in order to achieve peace with Russia and NATO membership in the future, Jensen indicated that "a discussion of a possible post-conflict situation is already underway."

He explained that the issue of transferring regions to Russia had been raised, adding, "I am not saying that this will be the case, but it is likely to be a possible solution."

In response to the statements, Ukraine ruled out the idea of ceding any part of its territory to Russia in return for joining the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

Mykhailo Podolyak, Ukraine's presidential advisor, described on Twitter the idea of his country ceding territory in return for joining NATO as "ridiculous".

Exchanging territory for membership, Podolyak said, means "choosing to defeat democracy, encouraging a global criminal, preserving Russian order, destroying international law, and passing on war to other generations."

He explained that anything other than a "crushing defeat" for Russian President Vladimir Putin would open Russia's "appetite for more," according to the Kyiv Independent newspaper.

It is noteworthy that since 2014, Ukraine has abandoned the status of a neutral country, and has set its course towards the European Union and NATO.

During the last “NATO” summit held last month, the alliance countries agreed on a multi-year support package for Ukraine, consisting of 3 points that include an assistance plan to bring the Ukrainian Armed Forces into line with NATO standards, the establishment of the “Ukraine-NATO” Council and confirmation of Ukraine’s right to join Swearing without prior implementation of the steps to achieve membership.

At the same time, no time frame has been set for Ukraine's entry into the alliance, which Kiev has insisted on, as well as the conditions that must be met in order to receive an official invitation to join the alliance.

Medvedev comments on a "new idea" presented by NATO for Ukraine's accession to the alliance and sets Russia's conditions

The Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Council, Dmitry Medvedev, considered that in order for Ukraine to "enter" NATO, the country's authorities must abandon Kiev itself.

Medvedev said: “A new idea for Ukraine from the NATO office.” Ukraine could join NATO if it gave up the disputed territories. and what? The idea is intriguing. The only question is that all of their claimed lands are highly disputed. To enter, the authorities must forsake Kiev itself, the ancient capital of Russia. They will have to move the capital to Lvov.”

The Director of the Special Office of the Secretary-General of NATO, Stian Jensen, announced that Ukraine could join the alliance in exchange for ceding part of its territory to Russia.

A Translation of Medvedev's statement:

A new idea for Ukraine from the office of the North Atlantic Alliance:

Ukraine can join NATO if it gives up the disputed territories.

And what? The idea is curious. The only question is that all allegedly their territories are highly controversial. And in order to enter the bloc, the Kyiv authorities will have to give up even Kyiv itself, the capital of Ancient Rus'.

Well, they will have to move the capital to Lviv. Unless, of course, the psheks agree to leave Lemberg to lovers of bacon with coke.

Media Review: The Guardian says Britain must acknowledge its role in the 1953 coup in Iran

Media Review: The Guardian says Britain must acknowledge its role in the 1953 coup in Iran

    Tuesday, August 15, 2023   No comments

A report in the British newspaper, The Guardian, spoke today, Tuesday, about "the need for the United Kingdom to recognize its role in the coup that took place in Iran in 1953, which toppled the democratically elected government of Muhammad Mossadeq, and replaced it with a military government that allowed the Shah to restore his dictatorial powers on a large scale in the country." for two and a half decades, before the Islamic Revolution overthrew him in 1979.

In the context, former British Foreign Secretary David Owen said, "The United Kingdom must finally acknowledge its role in the coup, for the sake of the credibility of Britain and the Iranian reform movement."

The United States officially acknowledged its primary role in the coup 10 years ago, after declassifying a large number of intelligence documents, which made it clear that the overthrow of the elected Prime Minister, Muhammad Mosaddegh, 70 years ago this week, was a joint endeavor between the British and American intelligence services. The CIA and MI6.

So far, the UK government's official position has been to "refuse to comment on this intelligence matter".

According to the report, the original plot, codenamed "Operation Bout" or "Ajax", was formulated by the British Secret Service after Mossadegh became prime minister and the dominant British oil company in Iran was nationalized.

The report states that "the administration of Harry Truman, the US president, did not want to have anything to do with this process, and considered Mossadegh as a bulwark against communism, but Winston Churchill, the UK prime minister at the time, was able to convince his successor Dwight Eisenhower of the importance of carrying it out."

In the spring of 1953, the CIA began joint planning with British intelligence, and the operation was renamed Ajax.

On the 70th anniversary of the start of the coup, on Tuesday, David Owen, who was foreign secretary from 1977 to 1979, told the Guardian newspaper, "There are good reasons today to recognize the UK's role with the US in 1953 in overthrowing democratic developments in Iran."

And he stressed that this must happen "by recognizing that we were wrong in doing so, and we damaged the steps that were developing towards a democratic Iran, and through this we can make reforms now more bearable," he said.

During Lord Owen's tenure at the Foreign Office, the Islamic Revolution in Iran overthrew the Shah's regime, and Owen said, commenting on that period: "I made it clear to the Shah that his style of government should give way to democratic reforms, but I wish I had known about his serious illness, and I could have The pressure was on him much earlier, in 1978, to stay in Switzerland for medical treatment."

He added, "Today, the British government will help the cause of the dissidents in Iran, and make it more likely to succeed without neglecting it, if we admit our previous mistakes in 1953, as well as the mistakes we committed in the period from 1977 to 1979."

Documentary film about the coup suppressed by Britain

The report in the "Guardian" touched on a new film entitled "Coup 53", which traces the history of the coup in Iran, and focuses on a young British spy who played a pivotal role in it, named Norman Darbyshire.

Despite receiving rave reviews and ratings, director Taghi Amirani and veteran Hollywood editor Walter Murch were unable to find a distributor for the film, a fact they attribute to the UK's continued cloak of official secrecy on the subject.

Amirani said they were subjected to “the most bizarre and sinister attempts to suppress both the contents of the film and its chances of distribution, through so many twisted turns,” while Richard Norton Taylor, author of The Secret State, a book on British intelligence and the media, said it was “sad.” It is absurd, even counterproductive, for the British government to continue to hide behind its old motto of "neither confirm nor deny" and to continue refusing to acknowledge its leading role in the overthrow of Mosaddegh.

Despite the insistence of British politicians to present the British role in Iran as a supportive role for democracy, many Western reports and books on the history of politics in the region and intelligence operations confirmed that the main goals that constituted Britain's motive in Iran are economic ambitions for Iran's oil, and political ambitions due to its strategic location in Iran. confront the Soviet Union.

Last January, Iranian intelligence arrested a high-ranking British agent, Ali Reza Akbari (61 years), former assistant to the Minister of Defense, on the grounds of his conviction of spying for Britain, of which he holds nationality, and the Iranian judiciary later announced the execution of the death sentence issued against him.

The Century Project.. Algeria announces the completion of a road linking its borders with Tunisia and Morocco

The Century Project.. Algeria announces the completion of a road linking its borders with Tunisia and Morocco

    Sunday, August 13, 2023   No comments

Algeria announced, on Saturday, the completion of the “East-West Highway,” which starts from the country’s western border with Morocco and reaches its eastern border with Tunisia, with a length of 1,216 km.

This came during the inauguration of the Algerian Prime Minister, Ayman bin Abdel Rahman, the last section of the road that connects the city of Daraan (Al-Tarif Governorate in the far east) with the Tunisian border at a distance of 84 km, according to state television.

Thus, Algeria has completely completed the completion of this road, which began to be built at the beginning of the new millennium and was called the “Project of the Century”.

According to official figures of the Algerian government, the total cost of the road exceeded 13 billion dollars, and it was supposed to be completed in 2012.

The project experienced delays due to technical and administrative problems, and at that time a corruption case erupted, known as the “scandal of the century,” and the trials ended in 2015 with the Algerian judiciary issuing prison sentences and financial fines against those involved.

And the Algerian authorities relied on the immediate exploitation of every section of the road that was prepared, until it was completely completed, on Saturday.

Bin Abdul Rahman called for activating road maintenance networks and ensuring that it is suitable for vehicle traffic.

The last section of the road allows for an increase in the volume of trade exchanges with Tunisia, in addition to ensuring the smooth movement of people between the two countries.

The "giant road" is located within an economic and commercial integration scheme drawn up by the Union of Arab Maghreb States, to link the land of Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia, but the differences between Algeria and Rabat and the closure of the land borders between them since 1994 prevented the completion of the road scheme.

And the Algerian Prime Minister, Ayman bin Abdel Rahman, inaugurated the last section of the road, which connects the city of Daraan (Al-Tarif Governorate in the far east) with the Tunisian border, at a distance of 84 kilometers, and thus Algeria has completely completed the completion of this road, which began construction at the beginning of the new millennium, and was named with the "Project of the Century".

The Algerian Prime Minister said that Algeria "now has the longest road network on the continent, with a distance of 141,000 km, of which 9,000 km are highways, according to international standards."

Bin Abdul Rahman called for "activating road maintenance networks and ensuring that it is suitable for vehicle traffic." The last section of the road allows for an increase in the volume of trade exchanges with Tunisia, in addition to ensuring the smooth movement of people between the two countries.

In this regard, bin Abd al-Rahman said that this road is "the artery of the economy, and we are working with an economic approach to endorse development and end isolation," pointing out that "although the Dhara'an section was completed by foreign institutions, the project involved many competencies and hands." qualified Algerian worker.

The East-West Highway is of paramount importance, in terms of the economic, developmental and social dimension, and its completion means the complete opening of the motorway that connects 17 northern Algerian states, out of 58 states, that make up the Algerian Republic, and also connects Algeria with other Arab countries.

In retreating from the threat of military intervention to restore the elected government.. ECOWAS: Dialogue with the leaders of the Nigerien coup is the "basic" of efforts to resolve the crisis

In retreating from the threat of military intervention to restore the elected government.. ECOWAS: Dialogue with the leaders of the Nigerien coup is the "basic" of efforts to resolve the crisis

    Thursday, August 10, 2023   No comments

The leaders of West African countries stressed Thursday that they will make negotiations with the military leaders who seized power in Niger the "base" of their efforts to defuse the crisis, in retreat from the threat of military intervention to restore the elected government.

"We prioritize diplomatic negotiations and dialogue as the basis of our approach," said Nigerian President Paula Tinubu, who is chairing the emergency summit of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Abuja.

The military council in Niger forms a new transitional government that includes 21 ministers

Today, Thursday, the head of the military council in Niger, Abd al-Rahman Tiani, signed a decree forming a new transitional government, local media reported.

Actoniger reported that Tiani signed the decree forming the transitional government yesterday, Wednesday, which is composed of 21 ministers and includes a small number of military personnel.

On July 27, soldiers in the Nigerien army announced, on state television, the dismissal of President Mohamed Bazoum, his detention in his residence, the closure of borders and the imposition of a curfew, explaining that they had decided to put an end to the current regime, after the deterioration of the security situation and economic mismanagement in the country.

In response to the military council's move, the Economic Community of West African States "ECOWAS" announced the imposition of sanctions on Niger, including closing its airspace and suspending trade exchanges with it.

For his part, Tianyi rejected these punishments, describing them as illegal, unfair and inhumane.

In early August, the participants in an emergency meeting of the Chiefs of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Economic Community of West African States, held in Abuja, adopted a plan in the event of a military intervention in Niger.

After mobilizing a force of 25,000 ECOWAS soldiers for possible intervention in Niger, the military council refused to receive the delegation of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the African Union and the United Nations.

Coinciding with the announcement of the African crowd of a possible military intervention, the leaders of the military council announced the appointment of Ali Mahman Lamine Zain, an economist and former minister of finance, as prime minister in the country after Bazoum was dismissed due to his allowing foreign interventions in the country.

The military council announced the cancellation of a number of military cooperation agreements with France, in addition to ending the missions of the country's ambassadors to France, the United States, Nigeria and Togo.

The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs commented on the military council's decision to cancel the agreements concluded with it, stressing that it "only recognizes the previous authorities of Muhammad Bazoum" and rejects the decision.

It is noteworthy that US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken announced in a statement that his country's government had decided to freeze some "foreign assistance programs" from which the government of Niger benefits.

Likewise, the United States and ECOWAS confirmed that they hoped to reach a diplomatic solution in Niger that would put things back in order.

It is noteworthy that both Mali and Burkina Faso supported the Transitional Military Council in Niger, and declared clearly that "any intervention by the Economic Community of West African States to return Bazoum to power would be tantamount to declaring war on them."

In the same context, Russia believed that foreign intervention would not allow a solution to the crisis in Niger, and Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that "it is unlikely that the intervention of forces from outside the region will allow the situation to improve."

It is noteworthy that the countries of the European Union began yesterday, Wednesday, to prepare to impose the first sanctions on members of the military council in Niger.

The situation in Niger raises concerns about the future of the country and the region, at a time when it faces increasing security challenges due to the threat of armed groups growing in the Sahel region. It also raises concern in the West, especially France and the United States of America, because the ousted president is considered Paris's first man in the African Sahel countries.

Kazakhstan, and soon Russia, increase export of agricultural goods through Iran via the INSTC

Kazakhstan, and soon Russia, increase export of agricultural goods through Iran via the INSTC

    Tuesday, August 08, 2023   No comments

In another sign of activating alternative paths for global trade with the uncertainty in the Black Sea due to the conflict in in Ukraine, Kazakhstan decided to export its agricultural goods across the Persian Gulf through the Islamic Republic of Iran to open a new direct route to free waters, which starts from the port of Korik in Kazakhstan, then the Iranian port of Amirabad overlooking the Caspian Sea, and then to the port of Bandar Abbas on the Persian Gulf.

The Iran route reduces the duration of the transfer of goods through presence in the ports of the Emirates, India, Pakistan, the Far East and the coasts of East Africa, in addition to that this route can export Kazakh goods to the European Union.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan, Srik Jumangarin, held talks with the head of an Emirati shipping and transport company, to employ joint investments for this goal.

This is a major development, which practically, could allow Russia to export its goods and services through this route directly or through Kazakhstan, bypassing the risk associated with the Black Sea trade route. However, this North-South route has been in the making for over two decades, and only now it is showing its potential in a new geopolitical climate.

What is the International North–South Transport Corridor—INSTC?

It was first conceived in the early 2000’s. The idea was to build a transport corridor linking Russia’s Baltic Sea coast to India’s western ports in the Arabian Sea via Iran. Russia, India and Iran signed preliminary agreements to develop the 7,200-km-long International North-South Transport Corridor (NSTC) in 2002. NSTC consists of sea, road, and rail transportation systems with investments for building the railroads and truck highways coming mostly from India, Russia, and Iran. 

The INSTC's western route passes through Russia, South Caucasus, and Iran. The middle axis reaches India through Saint Petersburg – Astrakhan – Caspian Sea – North and South ports of Iran (Amirabad, Anzali, Chabahar, and Astara ports). The eastern axis passes through Russia-Kazakhstan-Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan-Iran.

Three years later, Azerbaijan signed up for the project. This agreement was eventually ratified by 13 countries — India, Russia, Iran, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bulgaria, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Oman, Tajikistan, Turkey and Ukraine.

Now the NSTC is allowing states close to its main path to benefit from this increased North-South activities created by the sanctions imposed on Russia and the new sanctions imposed on Iran after the collapse of the Nuclear Deal. Iran stands to benefit most from this initiative, which, together with China’s BRI project will create new networks I the region and east Africa.

A racist group hostile to Islam in Denmark burns the Holy Qur’an in front of the embassies of Islamic countries in Copenhagen and raises slogans against Muslims

A racist group hostile to Islam in Denmark burns the Holy Qur’an in front of the embassies of Islamic countries in Copenhagen and raises slogans against Muslims

    Tuesday, August 08, 2023   No comments

On Tuesday, the Danish capital, Copenhagen, witnessed new attacks against the Noble Qur’an.

The Anadolu Agency correspondent said that members of a group called “Danish Patriots” burned copies of the Qur’an in front of the embassies of Turkey, Algeria, Pakistan, Indonesia and Iran in Copenhagen.

He pointed out that the provocative actions took place under the protection of the Danish police, and that members of the racist and anti-Islam group chanted slogans against Muslims.

The members of the group also published the moments of the assault on the Noble Qur’an through live scenes from their pages on social networking sites.

Facebook had imposed restrictions on some of the group's videos.

Recently, in Sweden and Denmark, incidents of insulting the Qur’an by extreme rightists in front of the embassies of Islamic countries have been repeated, which sparked angry Arab and Islamic reactions, officially and popularly, in addition to official summons for the diplomats of the two countries in more than one Arab country.

On July 26, the United Nations adopted a consensus resolution, drafted by Morocco, condemning all acts of violence against the holy books as a violation of international law.