Algeria, Iraq hold talks on oil prices, fighting terrorism

Algeria and Iraq said Wednesday that they have means to act in concert with other friendly countries to stem the decline of oil prices in international markets.

Visiting Iraqi Foreign Minister Ibrahim al Ashaiqer al-Jaafari met with his Algerian counterpart Ramtane Lamamra on Wednesday on bilateral relations, the ways and means of addressing the current record-low oil prices, and counterterrorism cooperation.

Lamamra said "We share with Iraq commitments, principles and interests which also apply to international oil markets amid the record decline in oil prices," and the two countries "can also act in concert with other brotherly and friendly countries to stem the plunge of oil prices."

Al-Jaafari said the two nations share convergent views on fighting terrorism at the levels of both the Arab League and the UN Security Council.

The Iraqi minister admitted that bilateral relations have been lagging behind due to some "circumstances," referring to the unstable security situation in his country. He further pledged that his visit to Algeria will be the beginning of a new era in all areas.

Al-Jaafari is due to meet with top Algerian officials, including President Abdelaziz Bouteflika. Endit