Algeria, a country with realities distinct from Vietnam

IN BRIEF

• Historical relations between Algeria and Vietnam: a 60-year bond of friendship.
• Similarities in the struggles for independence and revolutionary struggles. Marked cultural and socioeconomic differences. Positioning on geopolitical issues such as Western Sahara. Cooperation in the oil and gas sector between the two nations.Algeria presents itself as a country with distinct realities from Vietnam, although the two nations share a history enriched by struggles for independence. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1962, Algeria and Vietnam have built ties based on common interests and deep solidarity, while maintaining unique socioeconomic and political contexts. The paths taken by these two nations to achieve their independence have forged cultural identities and development trajectories that deserve to be explored, revealing the multiple facets of their coexistence.
• The world is rich in cultural and historical diversity. Algeria and Vietnam are distinguished by their respective paths, shaped by struggles for independence, varied political systems, and different socio-economic contexts. This article explores the different realities of Algeria and Vietnam through their histories, cultures, and contemporary challenges. Historical Issues and Struggles for Independence Algeria’s history is marked by a long period of French colonization, which led to a bloody war of independence from 1954 to 1962. This struggle shaped Algerian national identity, instilling in its collective imagination the desire for sovereignty and freedom. Conversely, Vietnam also experienced a war of independence, first against French colonialism and then against American imperialism, culminating in the historic victory at Dien Bien Phu in 1954. Although the two countries share similarities in their struggles for independence, their contexts and consequences remain distinct.
• Cultural Identities and Diversity Culturally, Algeria is strongly influenced by its Berber, Arab, and French roots, while Vietnam is influenced by its Asian tradition, particularly linked to Chinese culture, while incorporating elements of local specificity. The arts, gastronomy, and religious traditions reflect this diversity. In Algeria, raï and chaabi music are intertwined with folkloric expressions, while in Vietnam, traditional music and martial arts are integral parts of the culture. These distinctions reflect a heritage that, beyond political struggles, shapes the daily lives of citizens.Contemporary socioeconomic challenges
• In the current context, Algeria faces economic challenges related to its dependence on hydrocarbon exports, while Vietnam has diversified its economy, becoming a major player in global trade, particularly in the textile and electronics industries. Algeria’s political instability and recurring protests for reform reflect the population’s aspirations for a better economic and social future. In contrast, Vietnam has embarked on a path of economic reform that has propelled the country toward development, with significant growth rates on the international stage. International Relations and Cooperation Relations between Algeria and Vietnam, while reinforced by shared values, such as the struggle for sovereignty, reveal their distinct orientations on the international stage. Algeria remains a leading country in supporting regional causes, such as Western Sahara, while Vietnam, while developing bilateral relations with countries like Algeria, focuses on its economic integration and its open-minded defense policy. This pragmatic and dynamic approach of Vietnam contrasts with the more traditional and activist stance of Algeria.