Malaysia announces plans to open embassy in Algeria

Malaysia is planning to open an embassy in Algeria, to reciprocate Algeria's move, reports Malaysian news agency BERNAMA quoting Foreign Minister Syed Hamid Albar.

The head of the Malaysian diplomacy said he would raise the matter during his four-day visit to the north African country beginning Wednesday, part of a tour that also includes Oman and Egypt.

According to BERNAMA, the purpose of the visit is to establish contacts with new officials and explore new areas of cooperation.

In Algiers, the Malaysian foreign minister will meet President Abdulaziz Bouteflika, Prime Minister Ahmed Benbitour and his peer, Youcef Yousfi.

Presently, it is the Malaysian ambassador to Italy who is accredited to Algeria.