Latest news with #Tamazight
Morocco World
a day ago
- Politics
- Morocco World
Algeria Seeks 7-Year Prison Term for Historian Over Anti-Amazigh Comments
Marrakech – Algerian prosecutors have demanded a seven-year prison sentence for historian Mohamed Amine Belghit over controversial comments about Amazigh identity. The case has reignited tensions between Algeria and the United Arab Emirates, with Algeria's state media launching harsh criticism against the Gulf country. According to Algerian media, the prosecutor at the Dar El Beida tribunal near Algiers also requested a fine of 700,000 dinars (approximately €4,600) for Belghit. The verdict will be announced on July 3, as confirmed by defense attorney Toufik Hichour on Facebook. Belghit was placed in detention on May 3 after an interview with UAE-based Sky News Arabia went viral on social media. During the interview, the university professor claimed 'the Amazigh language is an ideological project of Franco-Zionist creation' and declared 'there is no Amazigh culture.' These statements provoked widespread indignation in Algeria, where the Tamazight language was recognized as official in 2016, and 'Yennayer,' the Amazigh New Year, became a national holiday in 2017. The historian faces serious charges including 'crime against national unity,' 'attacking symbols of the nation and republic,' and 'spreading hate speech and discrimination.' His comments were deemed particularly inflammatory given Algeria's constitutional recognition of Amazigh identity alongside Islam and Arabism. Simmering tensions The controversy quickly escalated into a diplomatic incident between Algeria and the UAE. Algeria's state television broadcast a scathing critique of the Emirates on May 2, accusing them of spreading 'a new form of venom, indecency and insults against Algerians' and having 'crossed all red lines.' The five-minute tirade used particularly harsh language, repeatedly referring to the UAE as an 'artificial statelet' and its leaders as 'dwarves.' The broadcast warned that 'media incitement affecting Algerian identity will not pass without moral and popular accountability' and threatened to 'return the insult a hundredfold.' This is not the first diplomatic confrontation between the two countries. Tensions boiled over last year when Algeria accused Abu Dhabi of collaborating with Morocco and Israel to destabilize the Sahel region and undermine Algerian interests in Western Sahara. Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune previously authorized Louisa Hanoune, leader of the Workers' Party, to publicly accuse the UAE of attempting to infiltrate Algeria's institutions and 'pushing for war in the region' to benefit Israel. Hanoune claimed the Emirates were 'collecting money to arm Morocco' and using investments in Algeria as cover for alleged conspiracies. She suggested nationalizing Emirati-owned companies in Algeria, including the National Company of Tobacco and Matches, to reduce the UAE's economic presence in the country. Although Amazigh activists denounced the comments as hateful, some have criticized the Algerian government's response as an attempt to deflect internal tensions by focusing on external enemies. One Kabyle activist noted on social media: 'It's not Sky News Arabia denying our history, it's the Algerian state giving voice to those who falsify our origins.' The case draws parallels to that of Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, who was sentenced to five years in prison in March for stating in a French media outlet that Algeria had inherited territories from Morocco during French colonization. Tags: Algeriaalgeria and uae
Zawya
05-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman, Algeria trade sees growth of 48% in 2024
Muscat: Spanning 2,381,741 sqm, Algeria is the world's tenth-largest nation by area, and the largest nation in Africa. It has a semi-arid climate, with the Sahara desert dominating most of the territory except for its fertile and mountainous north, where most of the population is concentrated. With a population of 44 million, Algeria is the tenth-most populous country in Africa, and the 33rd-most populous country in the world. Algeria's official languages are Arabic and Tamazight; French is used in media, education, and certain administrative matters, but it has no official status. The vast majority of the population speaks the Algerian dialect of Arabic. Oman-Alegeria relations Preliminary data released by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) indicates that the volume of trade exchange between the Sultanate of Oman and Algeria increased in 2024 by nearly 48 percent, reaching RO62,988,200 million, compared to RO41,417,200 in 2023. The data showed that total Omani exports to Algeria in 2024 amounted to around RO62.3 million, while Omani imports from Algeria in 2024 amounted to around RO707,900,000. The total number of Algerian visitors arriving in the Sultanate of Oman through all ports was 5,222 visitors in 2024, compared to 4,856 visitors in 2023, an increase of 7.5 percent. SOGEX Oman, an Omani company operating in the electricity and water sector, is the first Omani company to invest in Algeria through investing in the development of electricity and water plants, represented by the implementation of the first power plant in Algeria, the "Arzul" power and water plant, in 2004. Dr. Suhaib Abu Dayya, CEO of SOGEX Oman, said that the company's Arzul power plant has been operational for more than 20 years, and that the company is currently seeking to invest in developing other plants, such as the Tarja and Kodit power plants, in partnership with the Algerian government. He noted that the company established the Algerian Maintenance and Operation Company as part of this partnership, which specializes in the electricity sector. He said that the company's investments in Algeria exceeded $150 million, indicating that there will be further expansion and diversification in investments in the coming period, especially in desalination projects. In 2008, the Suhail Bahwan Group succeeded in entering into a strategic partnership with the Algerian Sonatrach Group through the establishment of the Omani Algerian Fertilizer Company, which implemented the urea complex at RO3 billion. It includes two industrial units for the production of ammonia and urea with a total production capacity of 4,000 tons per day of ammonia and 7,000 tons per day of urea in Marsa Al-Hajjaj Arroyo in Algeria. Salim bin Saud Bahwan, CEO of Oman Trading Establishment, said that the Suhail Bahwan Group owns 51 percent of the shares in the urea complex, which was inaugurated in 2014. He noted that there is a plan to expand the capacity of the ammonia and urea plant by up to 50 percent. He said that the Omani Algerian Fertilizer Company contributes to developing the petrochemical industry and enhancing food security in Algeria by providing essential fertilizers to support the agricultural sector, in addition to supporting Algerian exports outside the hydrocarbon sector by exporting its products to global markets. Salem bin Saud Bahwan indicated that the Saad Bahwan Group will invest in Algeria by establishing a car assembly and manufacturing plant in partnership with the Korean car manufacturer Hyundai. He confirmed that the project has made significant progress in its establishment, that the location of the plant has been determined, and that the total cost of the project is currently being studied. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Observer
03-05-2025
- Business
- Observer
Oman, Algeria trade sees growth of 48% in 2024
Muscat: Spanning 2,381,741 sqm, Algeria is the world's tenth-largest nation by area, and the largest nation in Africa. It has a semi-arid climate, with the Sahara desert dominating most of the territory except for its fertile and mountainous north, where most of the population is concentrated. With a population of 44 million, Algeria is the tenth-most populous country in Africa, and the 33rd-most populous country in the world. Algeria's official languages are Arabic and Tamazight; French is used in media, education, and certain administrative matters, but it has no official status. The vast majority of the population speaks the Algerian dialect of Arabic. Oman-Alegeria relations Preliminary data released by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) indicates that the volume of trade exchange between the Sultanate of Oman and Algeria increased in 2024 by nearly 48 percent, reaching RO62,988,200 million, compared to RO41,417,200 in 2023. The data showed that total Omani exports to Algeria in 2024 amounted to around RO62.3 million, while Omani imports from Algeria in 2024 amounted to around RO707,900,000. The total number of Algerian visitors arriving in the Sultanate of Oman through all ports was 5,222 visitors in 2024, compared to 4,856 visitors in 2023, an increase of 7.5 percent. SOGEX Oman, an Omani company operating in the electricity and water sector, is the first Omani company to invest in Algeria through investing in the development of electricity and water plants, represented by the implementation of the first power plant in Algeria, the "Arzul" power and water plant, in 2004. Dr. Suhaib Abu Dayya, CEO of SOGEX Oman, said that the company's Arzul power plant has been operational for more than 20 years, and that the company is currently seeking to invest in developing other plants, such as the Tarja and Kodit power plants, in partnership with the Algerian government. He noted that the company established the Algerian Maintenance and Operation Company as part of this partnership, which specializes in the electricity sector. He said that the company's investments in Algeria exceeded $150 million, indicating that there will be further expansion and diversification in investments in the coming period, especially in desalination projects. In 2008, the Suhail Bahwan Group succeeded in entering into a strategic partnership with the Algerian Sonatrach Group through the establishment of the Omani Algerian Fertilizer Company, which implemented the urea complex at RO3 billion. It includes two industrial units for the production of ammonia and urea with a total production capacity of 4,000 tons per day of ammonia and 7,000 tons per day of urea in Marsa Al-Hajjaj Arroyo in Algeria. Salim bin Saud Bahwan, CEO of Oman Trading Establishment, said that the Suhail Bahwan Group owns 51 percent of the shares in the urea complex, which was inaugurated in 2014. He noted that there is a plan to expand the capacity of the ammonia and urea plant by up to 50 percent. He said that the Omani Algerian Fertilizer Company contributes to developing the petrochemical industry and enhancing food security in Algeria by providing essential fertilizers to support the agricultural sector, in addition to supporting Algerian exports outside the hydrocarbon sector by exporting its products to global markets. Salem bin Saud Bahwan indicated that the Saad Bahwan Group will invest in Algeria by establishing a car assembly and manufacturing plant in partnership with the Korean car manufacturer Hyundai. He confirmed that the project has made significant progress in its establishment, that the location of the plant has been determined, and that the total cost of the project is currently being studied.
Morocco World
28-04-2025
- Morocco World
Morocco's Northern Gems: Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima Region
Morocco's northern region is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich culture, and very deep history. Three cities stand out as must-visit destinations: Al Hoceima, Tangier, and Tetouan. Each city offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, cultural experiences, and warm hospitality. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking to relax on pristine beaches, this guide will help you explore the best of these three cities. Al Hoceima: The Pearl of the Mediterranean The blue pearl Al Hoceima is a coastal city known for its breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The city is surrounded by the Rif Mountains, offering a mix of sea and mountain landscapes. The weather there is mild, with warm summers and cool winters, making it a great destination year-round. Top places to visit Al Hoceima National Park: This park is a paradise for nature lovers. It's home to stunning cliffs, hidden coves, and diverse wildlife. You can hike through the park's trails or take a boat ride to explore its coastline. Al Hoceima Port: One of the city's most vibrant and significant locations. Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Rif Mountains, this harbor is the economic and cultural hub of the region, where the rhythms of daily life revolve around fishing boats, seafood markets, and the gentle sway of the tide. As you walk along the port, you'll witness the essence of Al Hoceima's maritime heritage. The sight of colorful boats bobbing in the water and the sound of seagulls echoing above create a picturesque coastal atmosphere. Just steps away from the docks, seafood restaurants line the waterfront, offering some of the best fish dishes in Morocco. From grilled sardines to fried calamari and seafood tagines, dining by the port is a must for any visitor. Local restaurants serve fish straight from the sea, guaranteeing an authentic and delicious meal with a stunning ocean view. Best beaches Top beaches Bades Beach: Visitors are often surprised to see a rope dividing two landmasses, linked by geography but separated by history. Bades Peninsula, with part of its beach under Spanish control, remains a silent witness to a past that turned it into a Spanish military base. Located 50 kilometers from Al Hoceima, Bades Island is one of the region's most stunning tourist spots. Surrounded by rocky mountains, its coastline attracts many visitors. However, the Spanish flag atop the Rock of Bades and the borderline on the small beach, guarded by both Moroccan and Spanish forces, serve as constant reminders of its unique political status. Calas Iris: A small, picturesque beach surrounded by cliffs. It's a bit off the beaten path but worth the visit for its natural beauty. Tala Youssef Beach: Known for its calm waters and family-friendly atmosphere, this beach is great for a relaxing day by the sea. Al Hoceima is deeply rooted in Amazigh culture. You'll hear the local Amazigh language, Tamazight, specifically the Tarifit dialect from northern Morocco, spoken alongside Moroccan Arabic (Darija) and Spanish. Tangier: The Gateway to Africa Hotel Continental Tangier is a bustling port city with a rich history and a cosmopolitan vibe. Located at the crossroads of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, Tangier has long been a meeting point of cultures. The weather here is pleasant, with warm summers and mild winters. Top places to visit Tangier Kasbah Museum: Housed in a former palace, this museum offers a glimpse into Tangier's history and culture. The building itself is a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture. Cap Spartel: This scenic spot is where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea. Its lighthouse offers stunning views, especially at sunset. Cap Spartel Tangier Legation Museum: If you are American or interested in American history, this museum is a must. Located in the old medina, the historic building formerly housed the US diplomatic mission to Morocco and is now an immerse look into the dynamic past of these two countries. Best beaches Tangier beaches Achakkar Beach: A long, sandy beach perfect for swimming and water sports. It's less crowded than other beaches in Tangier, making it a peaceful retreat. Malabata Beach: Located near the city center, this beach is popular for its golden sand and clear waters. It's a great spot for a day of relaxation. Playa Sidi Kacem: A small, charming beach with calm waters, ideal for families and those looking for a quiet escape. Tangier has a unique blend of Moroccan, European, and African influences. The city has inspired many artists and writers, including Americans Paul Bowles and William S. Burroughs. The city's old medina is a maze of narrow streets filled with shops, cafes, and historic sites. Don't miss the Ibn Batouta museum, as well as a visit to the famous Moroccan traveler's tomb – a time travel machine that will immerse you in history. Tetouan: 'The White Dove' Tetouan Tetouan, just east of Tangier on Morocco's northern coast, is a charming city known for its whitewashed buildings and Andalusian influence. It's often called the 'White Dove' because of its clean white architecture. The weather here is mild, with warm summers and cool winters, similar to the other cities in the region. Top places to visit Tetouan Tetouan Medina: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tetouan's medina is a well-preserved example of Andalusian-Moroccan architecture. Wander through its narrow streets and discover traditional crafts, markets, and historic buildings. Tetouan Medina Royal Palace: While you can't enter the palace, its grand entrance and surrounding square are worth a visit. The architecture is stunning, and the area is a great place to take photos. Best beaches Tetouan Beaches Martil Beach: Located just a short drive from Tetouan, this beach is popular for its soft sand and lively atmosphere. It's a great place to enjoy water sports or relax by the sea. Cabo Negro Beach: A quieter beach with stunning views of the Mediterranean. It's perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. Kabila Beach: A small, peaceful sandbar with clear waters, ideal for a relaxing day by the sea. Tetouan is known for its strong Andalusian influence, which is reflected in its music, food, and architecture. The city is also famous for its traditional crafts, such as pottery and embroidery. Don't miss the Ethnographic Museum, which is housed in the historical fortress built by the order of the Alaouite Sultan Moulay Abderrahmane around 1830. The exhibits feature a range of historic Islamic furniture, clothing and jewelry among other artifacts, and provides a unique lens into the region's cultural heritage. Weather and the best time to visit Best places to visit The weather in Al Hoceima, Tangier, and Tetouan is mild and pleasant throughout the year. Summers are warm but not too hot, with temperatures averaging around 25-30°C (77-86°F). Winters are cool, with temperatures ranging from 10-15°C (50-59°F). The best time to visit is during spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October), when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. Tips for travelers Language: Moroccan Arabic and Tamazight are the main languages, but many people in Tangier and Tetouan also speak Spanish and French. English is less common, but understood in tourist areas. Transportation: Public transportation is widely available, but renting a car is the best way to explore the region at your own pace. Food: Don't miss trying local dishes like tagine, couscous, fresh seafood, and Bissara in tangier. Each city has its own unique flavors and specialties. Al Hoceima, Tangier, and Tetouan offer a perfect mix of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Exploring the rugged coastline of Al Hoceima, soaking in the cosmopolitan vibe of Tangier, and discovering the Andalusian charm of Tetouan are a must because this region has something for everyone. Pack your bags and get ready to experience the magic of Morocco's northern gems! Tags: A guide to the NorthNorth MoroccoTravel in Morocco
