In a momentous achievement, the ambitious Algerian East-West Highway, designed to connect 17 provinces, has reached its completion as China’s CITIC Construction recently finalized the last 84-kilometer segment on Saturday.
Representing the concluding phase of this grand infrastructure initiative, the 84-kilometer section stretches from Drean, located in the easternmost province of El Tarf, to the town of Raml Souk, situated on the border with Tunisia.
During the inauguration ceremony held in El Tarf, Algerian Prime Minister Aymen Benabderrahmane emphasized the highway’s strategic importance in vastly improving travel for citizens and fostering enhanced economic interactions between Algeria and Tunisia.
Commending the “remarkable quality of craftsmanship,” he also underscored the invaluable hands-on experience that Algerian engineers and technicians have gained through their involvement in constructing the highway.
Within the event, Qi Shujie, Deputy General Manager of CITIC Construction Algeria, highlighted the dedication of Chinese engineers who, amidst challenges like substantial roadbed filling and potential landslides since taking over the project’s 84-kilometer section in 2017, successfully completed the venture within the stipulated timeframe.
He also recalled that CITIC had previously contributed to the project by constructing 528 kilometers of the highway between 2006 and 2012, solidifying its position as one of the Chinese firms entrusted with this significant endeavor.
Moreover, CITIC Construction exhibited its commitment to societal welfare by establishing a management institute and a national quality control center. These endeavors involved training numerous Algerian technicians and extending support to community initiatives. These initiatives encompassed a range of activities, such as engaging in social causes like providing assistance to underprivileged families during Ramadan, creating forest firebreaks, and offering aid during instances of flooding. These contributions were underscored by the company in an official statement.
