David Cameron visits Algeria
First post-independence visit by serving PM, part of efforts to lead a coordinated international response to evolving Al-Qaeda threat.
Prime Minister David Cameron has made the first visit by a serving Prime Minister to Algeria post-independence, as part of efforts to lead a co-ordinated international response to the evolving threat from Al-Qaeda Islamic Maghreb operating from parts of the Sahel region.
As the Prime Minister’s speech in Davos last week stressed, tackling the threat of extremism and terrorist violence is high on the UK’s G8 Presidency agenda, with the UK standing side by side with countries in the region, and working collaboratively to overcome the threat of terrorism.
Strengthening ties
Ahead of a long-standing visit to Liberia to attend the UN High Level Panel, the Prime Minister has travelled to Algiers to meet with President Bouteflika and Prime Minister Sellal and talk about strengthening bilateral ties between the two countries.
Talks are expected to focus on improving relations in a number of areas, including trade, education, health, culture and energy.
Lord Risby, the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy for economic partnership with Algeria, is also visiting the country as part of the UK government’s efforts to strengthen commercial ties.
Focus on security
Also accompanying the Prime Minister is his National Security Advisor, Sir Kim Darroch, and talks are expected to focus on strengthening security co-operation and establishing partnerships with the Algerian Government to deliver what Mr Cameron has described as the “…tough, patient and intelligent response” that is required to tackle the terrorist threat.