U.S.-Algerian Security Cooperation Enhanced

September 29, 2012

As part of the growing security cooperation between the United States and Algeria, Commander of United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) General Carter F. Ham arrived in Algiers on September 29 for a two-day official visit. During his visit, General Ham held talks with President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, Minister Delegate for Maghreb and African Affairs Abdelkader Messahel, and Minister Delegate for National Defense Abdelmalek Guenaizia on strengthening bilateral military cooperation as well as regional and continental issues of common interest.  General Ham and his hosts discussed the situation in Mali and the Sahel.  All agreed that international efforts were vital to ensuring regional stability, and reaffirmed their commitment to broadening partnership.  General Ham was especially grateful to the Algerian authorities for the security they provided to the United States Embassy following the anti-Islam movie.