A Journey of Remebrance: Pope Leo XIV Honors the 19 Blesses Martyrs in Historic Algerian Visit Copy link

Cardinal Jean-Paul Vesco to France 24: Algeria Welcomes Pope Leo XIV with Pride; The Visit’s Spiritual Depth Transcends Narrow Political Readings

In statements that silence critics and those spreading misinformation about Algeria, the Archbishop of Algiers, Cardinal Jean-Paul Vesco, affirmed that “Algeria has no intention of instrumentalizing or politically exploiting the Pope’s visit,” as some have claimed.

Speaking in an extensive interview with “France 24,” the Cardinal responded decisively to a question regarding Algeria’s interest in hosting Pope Leo XIV. He stated: “I believe there is no country in the world that does not wish to host the Pope. Like any other nation, Algeria views this visit with welcome and pride. I imagine that President Abdelmadjid Tebboune considers it an honor and will ensure it is organized under the best possible conditions.”

He further added: “While it is true that multiple interpretations can be made—and some may claim political or media exploitation—I do not believe this is the core of what is happening. What is occurring at a deeper level goes far beyond these narrow readings.”

According to Jean-Paul Vesco, the visit carries a powerful symbolic and human dimension, potentially highlighting a different face of the country—one built on openness and dialogue. Pope Leo XIV is set to begin this historic visit, the first of its kind, tomorrow, Monday. His itinerary includes several landmark sites, most notably the Basilica of Saint Augustine in Annaba, eastern Algeria.

ALGIERS | Special Report

Algeria is preparing for the arrival of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV tomorrow, Monday, April 13th, marking a historic “Apostolic Journey” that stands as the first-ever visit by a Roman Pontiff to Algerian soil. This landmark visit, scheduled from April 13th to 15th, serves as the inaugural leg of the Pope’s third African tour, underscoring Algeria’s role as a strategic and spiritual gateway to the continent.

This journey carries deep personal and spiritual significance for the Pope. Leo XIV (formerly known as Father Robert Francis Prevost) is treading the path of his spiritual mentor, Saint Augustine, the renowned Bishop of Hippo (modern-day Annaba).

A Program Rich in Symbolism: The first day in Algiers will feature pivotal diplomatic and religious milestones. It begins with an official reception by the President of the Republic, followed by a significant visit to “Djamaa el Djazair” (The Great Mosque of Algiers), where the Pope will meet with authorities and civil society leaders to promote interfaith dialogue and coexistence. The day will conclude with a gathering at the Basilica of Our Lady of Africa.

On the second day, the focus shifts to Annaba. The Pope will explore the Hippo Regius archaeological site and celebrate a major Mass at the Basilica of Saint Augustine, an event expected to draw international delegations and faithful from across Africa.

An Integrated Church:

The visit highlights the unique nature of the Catholic Church in Algeria. Though a small minority, it is characterized by its deep integration into the Algerian social fabric and its vibrant African diversity among both the laity and the clergy.

Source: KTO TV (France)

Algeria’s GDP (PPP) Projected to Surpass $915 Billion in 2026, Positioning it Among Africa’s Top 4 Economies

ALGIERS – Recent publications from the African Development Bank (AfDB), the World Bank (WB), and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have reached a nearly identical conclusion regarding Algeria’s economic outlook. These three major financial institutions unanimously agree that the Algerian economy is displaying significant resilience in the face of global geopolitical and economic turbulence, establishing itself as one of the most dynamic nations on the continent.

AfDB: Strong Growth and Robust Reserves

In its “Africa Economic Performance and Outlook 2026” report, the AfDB paints a favorable picture, estimating growth at 3.3% in 2025, rising to 3.9% in 2026 and 4.0% in 2027. This momentum is largely attributed to investments by the national oil company in partnership with foreign firms to expand production. Beyond energy, the report highlights the impact of significant public spending on social infrastructure and household consumption. Furthermore, inflation is projected to remain stable at 2.8% for the 2026-2027 period, supported by foreign exchange reserves covering 15.8 months of imports.

World Bank: Upward Revisions and Global Recognition

The World Bank has revised its 2026 growth forecast for Algeria upward to 3.7%, a notable exception in the MENAAP region where many forecasts are trending downward. This follow’s the WB’s 2024 reclassification of Algeria as an Upper-Middle-Income country. The institution notes that the current account deficit is expected to shrink significantly from -5.9% in 2025 to -2.4% in 2026, reflecting an “ambitious path for development and economic modernization.”

IMF: A Trillion-Dollar Horizon

The IMF provides further strategic insight, focusing on Purchasing Power Parity (PPP). According to its latest estimates, Algeria’s GDP is set to reach $915 billion in 2026, on a trajectory to exceed the $1 trillion mark by 2029. This performance secures Algeria’s position among the Top 4 economies in both Africa and the Arab world, signaling a rapidly expanding capacity for production and consumption.

Conclusion: A Path of Stabilization

While challenges regarding fiscal diversification persist, the consensus among these global institutions confirms that the Algerian economy is in a phase of progressive consolidation. The stable growth is underpinned by improving fundamentals and the strategic investment choices made in recent years.

Source: L’Algérie Aujourd’hui