PM security pledge on Algeria visit

Jan 30 2013

David Cameron has arrived in Algeria pledging closer security co-operation in the wake of the hostage crisis that claimed the lives of six Britons.

The Prime Minister said his aim was to help the country "help itself" amid a growing threat from al Qaida-linked terrorists in the region.

Speaking to journalists on the flight to Africa, Mr Cameron said: "The In Amenas attack and the situation in Mali reminds us of the importance of partnership between Britain and countries in the region."

Mr Cameron is to hold talks with counterpart Abdelmalek Sellal and pay his respects to victims of the hostage crisis during his visit - the first by a UK Prime Minister to Algeria in 50 years.

Some 37 foreigners, at least 10 Algerians and dozens of terrorists died in the attack on the In Amenas gas plant, which is jointly operated by BP, earlier this month.

The Algerian government took the controversial decision to storm the site in the Sahara desert, with Mr Cameron and other world leaders protesting about not being notified in advance.

In his discussions with Mr Sellal and President Abdelaziz Bouteflika in Algiers, Mr Cameron is expected to stress the need for a "tough, patient and intelligent response" to extremism in the region.

Defence Secretary Philip Hammond was on Tuesday forced to deny "mission creep" in the intervention to bolster the government in Mali as he boosted the UK's role.

Up to 240 troops could be deployed to train the Malian military and prepare soldiers from other African countries, while another 90 personnel could provide air support.

A roll-on, roll-off ferry has also been offered to transport French equipment to Africa.