Fight against terrorism: Increased cooperation between London and Algiers
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ennahar
ALGIERS - The UK and Algeria will increase cooperation in security matters by the creation of a bilateral committee of counterterrorism, said in Algiers, a senior British Foreign official Alistair Burt.
- In a statement from the British Embassy in Algiers, the "recent creation of the Bilateral Committee for anti-terrorist" was announced.
- It is a tool that "will allow Britain and Algeria to work on intelligence sharing and training," said British Secretary of State for the Middle East and North Africa. A meeting of this committee is expected "within two weeks in London.
- Considering Algeria a "key partner", Mr. Burt said that "there was need for nations to work together more effectively" against terrorism. He praised the position of Algiers to refuse any ransom paying to kidnappers.
- During his talks with Rezag Bara, advisor to President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, his counterpart Abdelkader Messahel and the head of diplomacy Mourad Medelci, Mr. Burt also talked about Iran.
- "Algeria is the friend of the two countries (Iran and UK), said Burt. For now, he said, Iran needs his friends to explain that it is on a slippery slope" with its nuclear program it presents as a civilian and not military but not convincing anyone.
- "If Algeria by its relations can help persuade Iran to accept the invitation to discuss its nuclear program, it will be a big help," he said.
- In addition to strengthening security and diplomatic relations between Algeria and Britain, Mr. Burt also wished expanding trade.
- UK exports to Algeria have more than doubled over the past five years, according to the diplomatic mission. In 2009, they rose by 22% over the past year to 327 million pounds (almost 385 million euros).
- Britain is one of the largest investors of the European Union in Algeria where it has invested 115 million euros in 2008. It is traditionally present in the oil and gas fields.
- Ennaharonline/ M. O.
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