Shri E. Ahamed, Hon’ble Minister of State for External Affairs paid an official visit to Algeria from 17-18 April, 2013 at the invitation of Foreign Minister of Algeria:The prime objective of the visit was to revive and renew our already strong bilateral relations on the occasion of the 50thAnniversary of Algeria’s Independence and 50 Years of Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between India and Algeria. Algeria is the largest country in Africa and second largest economy with considerable trade existing between India and Algeria to the extent of US$ 2.2 billion.Our exports to Algeria have increased manifold to reach US$ 1. 1 billion in 2012.
The Hon’ble Minister called on H.E. Mr. Abdelmalek Sellal, Prime Minister of Algeria and H.E. Mr. Mourad Medelci, Foreign Minister.During his interaction with both the leaders, the Minister of State discussed the possibility of signing term contracts for supply of oil and natural gas to India, Algeria being the 4thlargest producer of oil in Africa.Possibility of joint venture in manufacture of gas-based nitrogenous fertilizers for captive export to India was also discussed.A Road Map for further strengthening of areas of bilateral cooperation including political, commercial & economic, human resource development, science & technology etc. were discussed while presenting to the Algerian side.
The Algerian side requested India for furthering cooperation in the field of ICT and pharmaceuticals whereas Shri E. Ahamed expressed interest in participating in the Presidential programme for development of infrastructure including social housing, roads & highways, railways and airports.Possibility of more cultural cooperation and people to people contact including hosting Indian Food Festival and Films Festival in Algeria were also discussed.
Both sides expressed satisfaction at the excellent level of bilateral relations in various sectors.However, both agreed that a large potential exists for further development of these relations for which the two sides would work together under the Road Map drawn for it.
New Delhi
April 18, 2013Source
