Foreign Affairs Ministry: Algeria Opens Embassy in Bratislava

Bratislava, 5 November (TASR) – Algeria has opened an embassy in Bratislava, with Slovak Deputy Foreign and European Affairs Minister Marek Estok receiving first ambassador of the newly established embassy in Bratislava Habiba Derradji Kherrour on Tuesday (4 November), TASR learnt from the ministry press department on Wednesday. According to the ministry, Slovak-Algerian cooperation is moving to a new qualitative level, with the mutual opening of embassies in both countries forming an important springboard for this progress. Slovakia has reopened its diplomatic mission in Algiers after two decades, while Algeria has transferred its diplomatic representation for Slovakia from Vienna to Bratislava. Estok emphasised that this step is the result of a reciprocal initiative. “We are very pleased to welcome the renewal of traditionally friendly and solid bilateral relations between Slovakia and Algeria. The mutual opening of our diplomatic missions in Bratislava and Algiers symbolically confirms this positive development,” Estok stated. Both partners expressed their belief that planned bilateral visits by government officials will further strengthen the dialogue. Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf is expected to visit Slovakia later this year. “Algeria is a strategic partner in North Africa, playing an important role in energy and security. Our goal is also to bring a new impetus to the development of economic cooperation, particularly in trade, investment and industrial projects,” the deputy minister explained. Estok identified energy, the defence and pharmaceutical industries, water management, modern technologies and research as promising sectors. Both sides agreed on the need to continue dialogue on energy cooperation and the possibilities of diversifying natural gas supply sources for Slovakia. Slovakia also welcomes the initiative to conclude a declaration on bilateral cooperation, based on a jointly drafted Roadmap. mf