Algeria Suspends Plans To Receive Syrian Refugees

The Foreign Affairs Ministry announced on Wednesday the suspension of its procedures in the province of Béchar (south-western Algeria) designed to host Syrian refugees stranded in Moroccan territory temporarily because of the Moroccan side’s dogged refusal to deport them.

According to a ministry statement, in response to a decision by the higher authorities to receive Syrian refugees, an official mission was sent to the Beni Nayef area for this purpose, accompanied by UNHCR representative Mr. Hamdi Boukhari.

A special scheme had been drawn up, and humanitarian and humane means were being enforced by the Algerian side to accommodate the hapless Syrian refugees in good conditions.

“Despite these incentive measures, the UN Commission has failed to reach a solution,” the statement said.

“In light of this unfortunate situation, Algeria finds itself compelled to temporarily suspend the plan of reception, in the framework of respect for international standards in this area”, the statement added.