The Embassy of Algeria in Islamabad has opened a book of condolence following the death of former President Liamine Zeroual, who passed away on March 29, 2026 at the age of 84 after a long illness. The mission invites friends, diplomats and members of the public to sign the condolence book at the Embassy premises, House No. 107, Street No. 9, Sector E-7, Islamabad. Visiting hours are Wednesday 1 April from 10:00am to 12:00pm and 2:00pm to 4:00pm, and Thursday 2 April 2026 during the same hours.
Liamine Zeroual led Algeria through one of its most difficult periods, serving as president from January 31, 1994 until April 27, 1999. As president he introduced the Civil Concord law, aimed at restoring security and encouraging national reconciliation after the violence of the so-called Black Decade. His tenure is widely remembered for efforts to combat terrorism and to create conditions for a return to political stability.
Born on July 3, 1941 in Batna, Zeroual joined the National Liberation Army in 1957 at the age of 16. He later received military training in the Soviet Union and at the French War College in 1974, and he commanded the Cherchell Military Academy as well as several military regions. He rose to the rank of General Major as Commander of the Land Forces before resigning from active army service in 1989.
After a brief diplomatic post in Romania in 1990-1991, Zeroual returned to public office and was named Minister of National Defense in July 1993. He assumed the presidency in early 1994, was elected on November 16, 1995, and ultimately called early multi-candidate elections that led to a peaceful handover of power to Abdelaziz Bouteflika. Zeroual described his decision to step down as intended to demonstrate the importance of the peaceful transfer of authority.
The Algerian Embassy’s decision to open a condolence book in Islamabad reflects the diplomatic ties between Algeria and Pakistan and provides an opportunity for the local community and diplomatic corps to pay tribute. Members of the public wishing to offer condolences or to acknowledge Liamine Zeroual’s role in pursuing national reconciliation are welcome to visit the Embassy during the stated hours.
