ALGIERS, Algeria, June 25 (UPI) -- London is eager to hear Algeria's vision for the future of North Africa, the visiting British foreign affairs minister for the region said.
British Foreign Minister for the Middle East and North Africa Alistair Burt arrived in Algeria for a three-day visit, marking his third official tour since taking office in 2010.
He said he looked forward to discussing improvements in bilateral economic affairs with his Algerian counterparts during his visit.
"I also look forward to hearing Algerian views on the future of the Maghreb region, including on work to strengthen economic ties and build prosperity," he said in a statement.
His visit followed a May vote in Algeria for members of the legislative assembly. Nearly two dozen political parties took part in a contest that featured roughly 28,500 candidates. With the ruling party securing its position, watchdog groups said they questioned the validity of the vote.
The Algerian government had welcomed foreign monitors but advised observers to act with discretion.
Burt added that he planned to visit with Algerian athletes slated to compete in next month's Summer Olympics in London.
