French Interior Minister, M. Dominique de Villepin, is visiting Algiers, Monday for two days. He is set to discuss a series of issues including bilateral trade, anti-terrorism efforts and fight against organized crime.
A sticky point will also be illegal immigration. It is believed this visit is set to strengthen cooperation on issues of mutual interest and a new initiative by senior France politicians to boost relations.
Villepin will also visit Tunisia, having already visited Morocco in September. During his time in Algeria, the minister will visit Constantine and the Mosque Emir-Abdelkader.
Simultaneously, there is an official visit to Paris by 200 local Algerian politicians representing 20 Algerian communities. The Mayor of Paris, Bertrand Delanoë and the French government spokesman, M. Jean-François Copé will also participate at this forum as well as representatives of the World Bank, UNESCO and NGOs.
© 2004 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
