The President of the Algerian Republic, Abdelmadjid Tebboune, was honored by the International Committee of Mediterranean Games (ICMG) in recognition of his dedication to sport and his personal contribution to the organization and success of the Oran 2022 Mediterranean Games.

By unanimous decision of the ICMG Executive Committee, President Tebboune was awarded the “Order of Merit,” the highest distinction of the International Committee of Mediterranean Games. This marks the first time in the ICMG history that this honorary distinction is awarded to a Head of State.

In addition to the excellent organization of the 2022 Mediterranean Games, the international Mediterranean Family acknowledges the policies implemented by President Tebboune to support sport at all levels — from high-performance athletes to clubs, schools, and universities — as well as his contribution to hosting major international sporting events in his country.

The “Order of Merit” was presented by the ICMG First Vice President Mehrez Boussayene, while the diploma was delivered by the Secretary General Iakovos Filippousis, in the presence of President Davide Tizzano, during a special ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Algiers. Also present were the President of the Algerian Olympic and Sports Committee (COA) and member of the ICMG Executive Committee, Abderrahmane Hammad, and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) member, Mustapha Berraf.

On behalf of the ICMG, Mr. Mehrez Boussayene stated: “We had the honor to be welcomed by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. This is a great honor for the Mediterranean Family, represented by the President of the International Committee of Mediterranean Games, Mr. Davide Tizzano, and the Secretary General Iakovos Filippousis. We awarded the President of Algeria the Order of Merit in recognition of his contribution to the Mediterranean Games held in Oran — Games that were historic and successful in every aspect. Today’s statement by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune that Algeria will always be ready to host the Mediterranean Games is proof of his commitment to youth and sport. Congratulations to Algeria for having such a President!”

By receiving this honorary distinction from the International Committee of Mediterranean Games, the President of the Algerian Republic reaffirms the importance of advancing sport in Algeria and strengthening the country’s position in major international competitions, placing the Mediterranean Sports Movement, the youth of the region, and Olympic values at the heart of this vision.