HISTORICAL BACKROUND
Algerian-Indonesian Relations: Historical Foundations and the Path of Bilateral Cooperation
Historical Backround:
The People's Democratic Republic of Algeria and the Republic of Indonesia share deep-rooted fraternal relations anchored in solidarity during their struggles for independence. These ties are built on mutual trust and a shared commitment to the principles of national sovereignty and the self-determination of peoples. Indonesian support for the Algerian Liberation War formed the cornerstone of this relationship, which has since evolved to encompass political dialogue, economic cooperation, and cultural and academic ties.
The support provided by Indonesia to the Algerian people's struggle for freedom and independence holds a permanent place in Algeria's national memory. The Asian-African Conference, held in Bandung from April 18 to 24, 1955, stands as one of the most prominent founding milestones of this shared history.
The National Liberation Front (FLN) delegation, led by the moudjahidine Hocine Aït Ahmed and M'hammed Yazid, brought the voice of the Algerian people to this historic forum, raising global awareness about the justice of their cause and mobilizing international support for their independence struggle. The conference's final communique declared explicit support for the Algerian people's right to self-determination and independence, calling on the French government to resolve the issue without delay. The Bandung Conference contributed significantly to internationalizing the Algerian cause, paving the way for its inclusion on the agenda of the United Nations General Assembly on September 30, 1955, at the initiative of Asian and African nations—among which Indonesia played a leading role. This milestone provided vital political and diplomatic backing for the Liberation Revolution and solidified the bonds of solidarity between the Algerian and Indonesian peoples.
This solidarity continued through Jakarta's hosting of FLN representatives, notably Lakhdar Brahimi, who resided there between 1956 and 1961 as the FLN's representative in Southeast Asia. Furthermore, Indonesia officially recognized the Provisional Government of the Algerian Republic (GPRA) on September 27, 1958—just days after its establishment—reaffirming its firm political support for the Algerian people's liberation struggle.