Mali: The Algerian state is "fully" mobilized to achieve the release of its diplomats taken hostage in Gao (Ministry for Foreign Affairs)

 

Algérie Presse Service (APS) - January 2, 2013

The Algerian state is "fully" mobilized to achieve the release of its diplomats taken hostage in Gao, Mali, Mr. Amar Belani, the spokesman for the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, said today in Algiers, adding that contacts with various interlocutors "are continuing" through various channels.

Replying to a question by APS on a recent video on the Algerian diplomats taken hostage in Mali broadcast on the Mauritanian information site ElAkhbar.info, Mr. Belani said: "I do not have any particular comments to make about that video. I can confirm to you, however, that the whole apparatus of the Algerian state is fully mobilized to achieve the safe and sound return of our compatriots."

In that respect, Mr. Belani declared that, "contacts are continuing with various interlocutors and through various channels and the emergency unit set up toward that end has been meeting regularly and maintains continuous contact with the relatives of our hostages."