US will not interfere in Algeria’s presidential elections, says ambassador

US ambassador to Algiers Henri Ensher said US Secretary of State John Kerry is expected to pay a visit to Algeria in the next few days and his country can not interfere in the presidential elections as they remain a domestic affair.

“Washington is ready to deal with any president elected by Algerian people,” the ambassador told a press conference on Sunday in Algiers.

Asked about allegations that the National Security Agency (NSA) would spied on Algeria, he said there are relations between the two countries and information exchange is conducted on the highest level.

He added that the presence of international monitors in the next presidential elections would confirm transparency.

“The US-Algerian relations are very developed in a number of levels. My meeting with parties’ representatives is normal and is part of diplomatic action,” he said.

Speaking about economic cooperation Ensher said Algeria’s 51/49 rule is discouraging as American investors are interested in the Algerian market but they want to have all their prerogatives.

“There must be transparency in investment ruling laws. Investors should be treated equally,” he added.

Asked about security situation following an attack on a gas complex in Tiguentourine (south of Algeria), the ambassador said Algerian authorities ensure the safety of all the American nationals and any of the US companies left Algeria because of security reasons.

Asked about the corruption case of Algeria’s former energy minister Chakib Khelil, the US diplomat said he can not make any comment about any case which is in the process of investigation or has not been opened yet.

“Washington knows about the investigation on corruption cases and it is in constant contact with Algiers. Anything new will be announced on time.”

Asked about Washington’s possible support to Tunisia and Algeria to fight terrorist groups, he said the US want Algeria to coordinate with neighbor countries to fight terrorism and drug smuggling.

Speaking about the Western Sahara issue, the ambassador said his country is still for the UN resolutions as consultations are going on to reinforce human rights respect.