Algerian troops to receive US counter-terrorism training

2010-12-07

Algerian counter-terror units will participate in a training program conducted by US military experts, El Watan quoted US Army Africa Commander Major General David R. Hogg as saying Monday (December 6th) in Algiers. The months-long program, set to get under way next year, includes stints in the US and Vicenza, Italy. Speaking at a press conference after his two-day visit to Algeria, Hogg said the purpose of US Africa Command (AFRICOM) was "not to intervene but rather to develop partnerships and training programs with countries in the continent".

"Algeria plays a leading role in the fight against terrorism in this region," Hogg said, noting Algeria's role in setting up the Tamanrasset joint military command and joint Sahel-Saharan intelligence center in Algiers. "With the leadership of the Algerian armed forces and the work that they are doing down there for co-ordination, progress is being made," Hogg said.

Last year in Algiers, President Abdelaziz Bouteflika and AFRICOM Commander General William Ward discussed training opportunities and security co-operation between the ANP and US military.

Source: Magharebia.com.
Link: http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/newsbriefs/general/2010/12/07/newsbrief-03.