The Embassy of Algeria in Islamabad has opened a condolence book following the death of former President Liamine Zeroual, who passed away on March 29, 2026, at the age of 84 after a long illness. Visitors may sign the book at the embassy premises at House No. 107, Street No. 9, Sector E-7, Islamabad, on Wednesday 1 April 2026 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, and on Thursday 2 April 2026 during the same hours.
Liamine Zeroual was born on July 3, 1941, in Batna and joined the National Liberation Army in 1957 at the age of 16. He received military training in the Soviet Union and later at the French War College in 1974. Over his career he commanded the Cherchell Military Academy and several military regions, rose to the rank of General Major as commander of the land forces, and resigned from the army in 1989.
After a brief diplomatic posting as ambassador to Romania in 1990–1991, Mr. Zeroual entered government service as Minister of National Defense in July 1993. He assumed the presidency on January 31, 1994, was elected on November 16, 1995, and remained in office until April 27, 1999. He led Algeria through the violent period known as the Black Decade and is widely remembered for the National Concord Law aimed at national reconciliation and stabilisation.
During his term he took steps that paved the way for a peaceful handover of authority and later relinquished power to the late President Abdelaziz Bouteflika after calling early multi-candidate presidential elections. He was quoted as saying, “I left my post to teach Algerians the meaning of the peaceful transfer of power.” His role in combating terrorism and promoting national reconciliation is a defining aspect of his legacy.
The embassy invitation extends to the diplomatic community and Pakistani friends of Algeria to pay their respects in Islamabad. The Algerian mission said the condolence book provides an opportunity for those who wish to express sympathy and remember the life and public service of Liamine Zeroual.
