PRESS

Algeria gives paramount importance to Mali conflict, says Boukadoum

ALGIERS- Foreign Minister Sabri Boukadoum said Saturday that Algeria gives a great interest to the Malian conflict, shown in its efforts as chair of the monitoring committee of the Peace and Reconciliation Accord in Mali.

Speaking at the forum of the Echaab daily, the minister reiterated Algeria's positions on a number of regional and international issues, including the Malian conflict.

Boukadoum said "Algeria works to provide assistance and encouragement to the Malian parties to implement all the provisions of the Peace and Reconciliation Agreement, so as to enable the Malian State to preserve its sovereignty and restore security in all parts of the country".

The Foreign minister highlighted Algeria's strategy, "aimed at boosting security and development in the Sahel, through tangible solidarity with the countries of the region to strengthen their capacities in all areas."

Referring to the Saharawi cause, Boukadoum stressed the need to overcome "the status quo currently marking the settlement process of the conflict, to put an end to the suffering of the Saharawi people, by allowing them to exercise their legitimate right to self-determination within the framework of the MINURSO (UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara)."

In this respect, the Minister reiterated his call for the appointment of a personal representative of the UN secretary-general for Western Sahara "as soon as possible."