Visiting Libyan PM discusses counterterrorism cooperation with Algeria

Visiting Libyan Prime Minister Faiz Al-Siraj on Monday was received by Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, as the recent developments in violence- ridden Libya were on the agenda.

Following the meeting, Al-Seraj told reporters that he discussed with Bouteflika and Sellal "a couple of issues of common interest, including strengthening the development in border areas, the fight against terrorism and boosting economic cooperation."

The Libyan official added that "Algeria has lessons we are trying to take advantage of," noting that "civil concord policy that has been conducted in Algeria is a social peace lesson," in reference to Bouteflika's national reconciliation process that contributed in putting an end to a decade long civil war in 1990s.

Al-Siraj arrived on Monday to boost bilateral relations and support the political process in Libya.

The visit is in line with "Algeria's efforts to find a consensual political solution in Libya, as it is the only possible solution to preserve the sovereignty of the brotherly and neighboring country, its territorial integrity and the unity of its people," according to a statement of the Algerian Prime Minister Office.

Algeria will reiterate its support to Libya, which is facing many challenges, particularly for the establishment of new institutions, fight against terrorism and the restoration of peace and security," said the statement.

Libyan protagonists reached peace accord following UN-sponsored talks held in the Moroccan resort of Skhirat in late 2015. A national unity government and a cabinet were recently announced in Tunisia.

Prime Minister Al Siraj's top mission is to unite Libya's two warring parliaments to ultimately battle the fast-growing forces of Islamic State. Endit