UN chief meets with Algerian president

UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan has described his talks with Algerian President Liamine Zeroual as "positive and useful." In a statement to reporters, Annan said his talks with the Algerian president dealt with the Western Sahara issue, and matters pertaining to the African continent and the Middle East. Annan also announced his intention to visit Libya in the context of Lockerbie issue.

Earlier in the day, President Zeroual met with Annan, currently visiting Algiers in the course of his tour of the Arab Maghreb. Talks during the meeting dealt with means of "giving a push for the peace plan in the Western Sahara and other issues of mutual concern." On Tuesday Annan held a series of talks with high-ranking Algerian officials.