Algeria and Morocco exceptionally open border for repatriation of Moroccan migrants
via Algérie3602 min read
Algerian authorities have exceptionally opened the Zouj Beghal border crossing to hand over a group of Moroccan nationals to Moroccan authorities. This operation involved 24 Moroccan citizens, including three women, who were attempting irregular migration. The transfer also included the remains of one Moroccan national. The Moroccan Association for Aid to Migrants in Difficult Situations reported these details and stated it is currently tracking over 500 cases related to irregular migration, including missing persons, detained individuals, and those awaiting repatriation. The association also noted that 138 people are currently in the process of repatriation. This humanitarian exchange highlights ongoing, albeit sporadic, cooperation between Algeria and Morocco on humanitarian issues, despite the diplomatic rupture and closed land borders between the two countries. Migrant advocacy organizations continue to call for accelerated repatriation procedures and clarification regarding the status of missing individuals.
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Must ReadAmbassador Amar Bendjama, Algeria's permanent representative to the United Nations in New York, was unanimously elected president of the United Nations Economic and Social Council ECOSOC for the 2027 session. This election by member states followed the unanimous endorsement of the group of African ambassadors last month, aligning with the regional rotation among the five UN geographical groups. ECOSOC is a principal UN organ responsible for coordinating economic, social, and environmental activities, overseeing approximately 70% of the human and financial resources of the entire UN system, including 14 specialized institutions, 9 technical commissions, and 5 regional commissions. Algeria's presidency highlights its diplomatic role in guiding international discussions on sustainable development and multilateralism. In his address, Ambassador Bendjama stated that this selection signifies confidence in Algeria and committed to fulfilling this responsibility with determination to accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. He outlined three strategic priorities for Algeria's presidency: inclusivity, accelerating the Sustainable Development Goals SDGs, and renewing trust and revitalizing the institution's role. Inclusivity will focus on reflecting the aspirations of all members, particularly countries in specific situations, and ensuring effective participation. Accelerating SDGs will involve promoting balanced progress in poverty eradication, education access, inequality re
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