The relationship between Algeria and Mali, both former French colonies, has become a major obstacle for these neighboring states, as they share a long border that includes the Sahel desert.

As predominantly Sunni Muslim countries, recent instability in Mali - notably in the Azawad region, home to the Tuareg people - has resulted in a significant al-Qaeda presence in the Islamic Maghreb,[1] posing a challenge for Algeria.

[2] The growing threat of militants from Mali has led Algeria and the United States to discuss how to counter their extremist actions.

[5] Algeria has emerged as a major investor in Mali, due in part to its relatively lower poverty rate and greater economic progress.

[6] Malian immigrants form at least 1% of the Algerian population, with most of them living in coastal cities such as Oran, Constantine, Algiers, Tamanrasset and Adrar Provinces.