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Algeria's Théniet El Had National Park joins UNESCO's global biosphere reserve network
via Algérie3603 min read
Algeria's Théniet El Had National Park has officially joined UNESCO's prestigious global network of biosphere reserves. The park director, Abderezzak Lahmar, announced that the Algerian application received unanimous approval in Paraguay during the 38th session of the International Coordinating Council of the Man and the Biosphere Programme, which concluded on June 6. This recognition highlights the park's unique ability to protect exceptional biodiversity while promoting local sustainable development. The park, a significant part of Algeria's environmental heritage, spans 3,400 hectares of dense forests and majestic landscapes. It is known for its unique populations of Atlas cedars, Aleppo pines, green oaks, and cork oaks. The park is home to over 100 species of mammals, birds, and reptiles. Natural sites within the park include Mount Ras El Brarit and Kef Siga, which offer panoramic views from 1,700 meters altitude. This UNESCO inscription is expected to boost scientific research, strengthen site protection, and transform the park into a key destination for sustainable tourism. In related news, Algeria has also officially submitted the "Augustinian Itineraries in Algeria" dossier to UNESCO. This initiative aims to protect archaeological remains and stimulate the local economy by promoting a 1,500 km route connecting 14 cities in the central and eastern parts of the country, following the footsteps of Saint Augustine.
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Must ReadThe US administration is set to implement new tariffs on imports from 60 trade partners, including Algeria, starting this Friday at 00:01 New York time. This move follows a revision of Washington's tariff policy after previous surtaxes were canceled by the US Supreme Court. According to an exclusive report by Asharq Business with Bloomberg, 11 Arab countries, including Algeria, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Egypt, Iraq, Libya, and Morocco, will face a 12.5% customs duty on their affected exports to the US. Jordan is an exception among Arab nations, receiving a reduced rate of 10%. This new tariff policy is based on an investigation by US authorities into compliance with forced labor prevention standards. The assessment covered 60 US trade partners and forms the basis for the new customs system, aiming to adjust tariffs according to the investigation's findings and establish a legal framework consistent with recent court decisions. Exempted sectors include energy products fuels, foodstuffs, and fertilizers. However, specific regimes will continue for sectors like automotive, metals, and pharmaceuticals, which remain subject to separate investigations and duties. The immediate implementation of these new taxes aims to prevent any legal vacuum in the processing of US imports following judicial decisions that challenged previous tariff measures. Several countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Mexico, India, and Jordan, will benefit
Must ReadAlgerian 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.
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