Algérie Presse Service (APS) - October 15, 2012

ALGIERS - Algeria remains true to its principles and "works tirelessly" to promote peace and justice throughout the world, Minister for Foreign Affairs Mourad Medelci said today, speaking on the occasion of the celebration of Algerian Diplomacy Day.

"True to its principles and values, Algeria is at the forefront and works tirelessly for the promotion of peace and justice throughout the world," said Mr. Medelci in an address delivered on that occasion.
"Under the wise and enlightened stewardship of the president (of the Republic), Mr. Abdelaziz Bouteflika, one of the illustrious fathers of Algerian diplomacy, our diplomacy is respected and attention is paid to its views throughout the world," he said.

Noting that this event coincides with the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the country's independence, he indicated that "our glorious Revolution knew how to blend armed confrontation and political and diplomatic action for the triumph of the legitimate aspirations of a people and the noble ideals that guided its action."

He said that political action "helped our revolution gain the moral and material support of numerous countries and the recognition of the legitimacy of the struggle of the Algerian people on the international scene."

In that respect, he noted that "combat diplomacy was at vanguard and was exemplary and decisive in the recovery of our national sovereignty."

Mr. Medelci also said that "throughout the world, the voice of the Algerian revolution rose and our just struggle turned into a universal cause."

Furthermore, he paid a "vibrant tribute" to all the women and men "who brilliantly led that fight," as he expressed his "gratitude" and his "admiration."

"This diplomacy has inherited a generation of men and women who are well versed in diplomatic intricacies and fervent defenders of international law and legality in the world and possess a treasure trove of know-how and unequaled international prestige," he added.

In that respect, he noted that "Algiers has become the capital of national liberation movements" and of "all struggles in support of the emergence of a more just and more equitable world."

"We pay tribute and bow to the memory of all those who fell in the line of duty. We pledge once again to remain faithful to their achievements and to continue to work for the noble objectives for which they have sacrificed their lives," Mr. Medelci said.

The foreign minister has also paid tribute to "those who live through difficult moments as hostage of terrorist groups."
"On this solemn day, we express to them all our solidarity and assure their relatives, the great family of Foreign Affairs, and the Algerian people that everything is being done to secure an end to their ordeal. Their suffering and the suffering of their relatives is our own suffering," he insisted.

Mr. Medelci added that "now as in the past, Algerian diplomacy remains mobilized to protect our community living abroad, to promote the image of Algeria, and in support of the establishment of an area of peace, stability and development in the region and beyond."

Algerian Diplomacy Day was celebrated at the headquarters of the ministry for Foreign Affairs and was attended by members of the government and historic personalities.