Algeria opens 1st Confucius Institute to promote academic exchanges with China

ALGIERS, Sept. 23 (Xinhua) -- The University of Algiers II on Tuesday inaugurated Algeria's first Confucius Institute, established in partnership with China's Northwest Normal University, marking a milestone in bilateral academic and cultural exchanges.

At the inauguration ceremony, Algerian Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Kamel Baddari welcomed the establishment of the institute, saying it will further promote academic cooperation and deepen cultural exchange between the two countries.

Chinese Ambassador to Algeria Dong Guangli hailed the institute as "an important milestone in academic and scientific cooperation between the two peoples."

In 2024, the University of Algiers II launched Algeria's first Chinese language program in cooperation with Northwest Normal University, enrolling 38 students in its inaugural class with plans to expand gradually.

Said Rehmani, rector of the University of Algiers II, said, "As part of our university's outward-looking vision, this institute is the fruit of that commitment, and it builds on earlier efforts to expand Chinese studies."

Wang Zhanren, president of Northwest Normal University, said the institute will serve as a bridge for cultural exchange, stressing the importance of "joint research, academic exchanges, and youth training," which he said will enhance the international profile of both institutions.