French presidency candidate Emmanuel Macron visits Algeria

French presidential candidate Emmanuel Macron on Monday started a two-day visit to Algeria as part of his campaign to gain votes of Franco-Algerian nationals established in France.

Soon after arriving at Algiers, Macron, who served previously as minister of economy, was received by Algerian Prime Minister Abdelmalek Sellal, Foreign Minister Ramtane Lamamra and Minister of Industry Abdeslam Bouchouareb.

"Bilateral relations between the two countries have improved in recent years, especially after 2012 following the visit of French President Francois Hollande to Algiers," Macron told reporters after his talks with Lamamra.

He added that "I would, however, like to express my desire to bring a dynamic and voluntary vision which reflects the higher profile of our common history, taking into account the future that should be axed on strategic development."

"I hope that France and Algeria would be able to develop common vision about our strategy in the Maghreb region," Macron said, adding that "there should be more solidarity, reconciliation and development in this important region, both for the Mediterranean and Africa."

As for the Algerian nationals established in France, the Socialist candidate said they represent "a living bridge between the two countries and embody a common memory."

It is not the first time that a French presidential candidate visits Algeria. Before Macron, Nicolas Sarkozy and François Hollande visited Algiers before being elected head of the French state. Endit