Russia Warns Against Foreign Meddling in Oil-Rich Algeria

Russia fired off a warning against foreign meddling in the political affairs of oil-rich North African country Algeria following the exit of embattled newly resigned President Abdelaziz Bouteflika.

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“We hope that, whatever happens, the internal processes underway in this country and which are wholly a matter for interior affairs are allowed to run their course without any interference from third countries,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

Bouteflika demitted office Tuesday, after a 20-year rule, amid wide-scale protests and mounting pressure from the army.

“We hope that the political changes will by no means affect the friendly nature of our relations,” Peskov said and added that Moscow has “mutually beneficial, friendly relations” with Algeria and that the two countries share “many joint projects in the economic sphere.”

Algeria’s struggling economy is heavily reliant on oil and gas exports. According to statistics, young people account for 70 percent of the population and one in every four people under the age of 30 is unemployed.  

“This is an important page in the history of Algeria that turns. We are confident in the ability of all Algerians to continue this democratic transition in the same spirit of calm and responsibility,” French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said in a statement. 

An ailing Bouteflika urged Algerians “to stay united, never divide yourselves,” adding “I ask your forgiveness for any failing toward you,” according to a letter published by state news agency APS Wednesday.  

Ahmed Benbitour, who served as prime minister under Bouteflika before resigning over lack of progress on reforms, is the potential successor. 

The former president stressed that women and young people were the “beating heart of our nation” and encourage Algeria’s new leaders to pave the way for “progress and prosperity.”

The 82-year-old leader sparked the anti-government demonstrations after indicating his intention to seek a fifth term.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres looks forward to a “peaceful and democratic transition process that reflects the wishes of the Algerian people.” according to spokesman Stephane Dujarric.