Algeria seeks weapons systems from U.S.
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Special to World Tribune.com
MIDDLE EAST NEWSLINE
Monday, July 16, 2001
WASHINGTON Ñ Algeria has confirmed that it seeks to buy weapons from
the United States.
Officials said the request came during the weekend visit to Washington
by Algerian President Abdul Aziz Bouteflika. Bouteflika was said to have
discussed the issue with President George Bush and Vice President Richard
Cheney.
"We are seeking specific equipment which would enable us to maintain
peace, security and stability in Algeria," Bouteflika said. "The Americans
are studying our request with open minds. But I cannot say more."
Bouteflika did not disclose the defense systems Algeria is requesting.
He cited increased military and defense relations between the two
countries. He said this includes the U.S. training of Algeria's military.
"We are particularly happy with the results," Bouteflika told a news
conference on Friday.
Western diplomatic sources said the White House had expected the
Algerian request. They said Algiers seeks security equipment required to
launch counterinsurgency operations against Islamic terrorists.
Algeria is the third largest Arab trading partner of the United States.
Trade in 2000 reached an all-time high of $3.6 billion.
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