The IMF’s Middle East and Central Asia Department is co-organizing with the Bank of Algeria a conference titled North Africa: Connecting Continents, Creating Opportunities. This conference will explore the challenges and opportunities of deeper regional integration and highlight policy priorities to advance economic cooperation. Positioned between Europe’s industrial demand and Africa’s demographic dynamism, North Africa holds a unique opportunity to serve as a strategic connector in a rapidly evolving global landscape. Closer economic linkages between North Africa, Europe, and sub-Saharan Africa can build greater resilience and shared growth across all three regions. Financial institutions can support economic integration of North Africa with Europe and sub-Saharan Africa.

Source: The North Africa Journal January 22, 2026 20:05 UTC