ALGIERS, Oct. 13 (Xinhua) -- Algerian Interior Minister Noureddine Bedoui said Saturday that developing border areas is key to safeguarding peace and security in Algeria, as armed conflicts are raging in some neighboring nations.
In his opening notes at the National Conference on Development of Border Areas on Saturday in Algiers, Bedoui said that the Algerian government is aware of the importance of developing border and interior areas, as Algeria is at the heart of security and regional conflicts and considered as "safety valve" for the majority of countries hit by armed conflicts.
Bedoui further noted that Algeria is aware of these challenges and is open to alternative and sustainable solutions in a bid to assure balanced development for border and interior areas.
The minister reiterated his position on the pivotal role played by the southern regions in enhancing national economy, stressing that the border development program is a turning point towards the progress and development of the national economy.
He indicated that an open area will be created with Mauritania after the opening of a new border crossing between the two nations, saying such a measure provides an opportunity for private traders to export their products to African countries via Mauritania.
The National Conference on the Development of Border Areas is attended by ministers of interior, industry, agriculture, industry, energy and tourism, as well as governors of 12 main border provinces, in addition to more than 400 participants, representing various national and international experts.
