January 14, 1998 No. 9

AXWORTHY SATISFIED BY ENVOY'S REPORT ON ALGERIA

Foreign Affairs Minister Lloyd Axworthy today expressed satisfaction with the discussions initiated by Canada's Special Envoy to Algeria Claude Laverdure with senior Algerian authorities. The Minister said he hopes the discussions have opened the way to further dialogue with Algeria on providing some assistance.

On January 6, Mr. Laverdure, Assistant Deputy Minister (Europe, Middle East and North Africa), was designated as a Special Envoy to Algeria to convey Canada's sympathy, to urge greater transparency concerning the current terrorism there, and to offer Canadian aid to the victims. Mr. Laverdure travelled to Algeria where he met with Algerian Foreign Minister Attaf.

While in Algiers, Mr. Laverdure presented a letter from Prime Minister Chrétien to Algerian President Zéroual expressing the Prime Minister's concern over the continuing violence in Algeria, and offering some assistance. Minister Axworthy said a reply is expected soon.

Mr. Axworthy said the Algerian government welcomed Canada's initiative and the meeting with Mr. Laverdure was warm and cordial. The Algerian government said they also would welcome a mission of parliamentarians from Canada, as well as Canadian journalists, if they want to visit and report on Algeria.

"Based on these meetings, we are hopeful that we can have further discussions with Algeria in order to improve the situation for those in need," said Minister Axworthy.

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For further information, media representatives may contact:

Debora Brown

Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs

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This document is also available on the Department's Internet site: http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca