It is a great honour to represent Her Majesty The Queen and the people of the United Kingdom in Algeria, continuing a tradition that stretches back to the appointment of the first British Consul in Algiers, Mr John Tipton, in 1585 during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I.

I am pleased to say that the relationship between our two countries is now as close as it has been for many years. Nothing could symbolise this better than the construction of a new Embassy building in Algiers. The inauguration of the Embassy in May 2009 by HRH The Duke Of York was a demonstration of the importance that the UK accords to its relationship with Algeria. We hope to create a modern relationship based on mutual trust between the two governments and peoples, which reflects the long-standing diplomatic and commercial relationship.

The UK is one of the largest investors in Algeria, with investments totalling more than £30 billion (over $45 billion). Today, hundreds of British companies operate in diverse sectors of the Algerian economy such as education, consumer products, infrastructure projects and petroleum companies.

The British Embassy works together with many Algerian Government ministries on projects. For example: with the Ministry of Justice on development of the Algerian penal system. The Embassy also works with civil society organisations across a range of sectors, from the environment to children’s charities.

It is also worth mentioning the ongoing bilateral co-operation between the UK and Algeria in the fight against terrorism. Our two peoples have both suffered from terrorism and our governments have committed to working together to put an end to this continuing menace. We are hoping to sign a Defence Agreement soon which will enable us to develop the practical aspects of this co-operation still further.

My wife, Julia and I arrived in Algeria in summer 2007 and are very much enjoying our time here, particularly the opportunity to travel around the country and to experience the warmth and hospitality of modern Algeria, while at the same time seeing many of the outstanding antiquities that act as a reminder of Algeria’s rich and fascinating history.