The Ambassador said that Algeria is emerging from the period of its history that was full of sufferings, is making efforts to strengthen the unity achieved and to enable the society to become stronger in the spirit of respecting the unique features that serve as the basis for the richness of the country. The Government of Algeria intends to continue and strengthen bilateral political, economic and cultural relations and co-operation. The trumps of Algeria are its geographical position, large gas and oil resources, favourable infrastructure and young and educated people, added the Ambassador.
President Rüütel said that despite the long distance, Algeria and Estonia have also similarities, both are maritime countries after all and have been under alien power for a long time, both of them are also building up an independent democratic country. President Rüütel admitted that it is not possible for Estonia to open its diplomatic representation in Algeria in the near future, but that honorary consuls play an important role in the foreign relations of Estonia. Estonian consulates in Algiers and Oran started their activities already in 1927 and 1928, and President Rüütel requested the assistance of the Ambassador provided that the Government of Algeria consents to it in finding a candidate for the post of the honorary consul to Estonia. President assured that Estonia is seriously interested in cultural co-operation and is ready to hold negotiations for signing an agreement on co-operation in the fields of culture, education and scientific research. The President also mentioned that Algeria and Estonia have had exemplary co-operation in international organisations.
Press Service of the Office of the President
Kadriorg, October 25, 2001
