Counter-terrorism: Algeria hosts the launch of the UN strategic framework "CONNECT" for the Sahel

Algiers hosted the official launch of the operational phase of the "CONNECT" strategic framework, an initiative by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime designed to combat terrorism and organized crime in West Africa and the Sahel. The participants lauded Algeria’s extensive experience and its commitment to regional stability. Baya Benmaïla, representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that the framework's success relies on regional ownership and a multidimensional strategy that goes beyond mere security measures. UN representatives and international delegates underscored Algeria's leadership, noting that addressing the nexus between terrorism and organized crime requires strengthened cross-border cooperation, enhanced intelligence sharing, and addressing the underlying causes of extremism within an African-led solution framework.