In Algiers, Raul Castro Hails Algeria's Foreign Policy

Cuban President Raul Castro on Monday praised Algeria's role in trying to resolve conflicts in neighboring Mali and Libya during a visit to the North African country.

Castro, who arrived Sunday in Algiers, told state television on the second day of a three-day visit that he held talks with President Abdelaziz Bouteflika on "regional" issues.

"We support Algeria's international policies, particularly in solving the Malian and Libyan crises," Castro said.

Algiers has hosted separate peace talks between Libyan rivals and warring factions in Mali in the past months.

Castro, who is accompanied by a high-ranking delegation, also told reporters the two countries "will work on an accord to make vaccines" in Algeria. He did not elaborate.

A statement from the Algerian presidency said delegations from both countries would discuss ways of bolstering cooperation between Cuba and Algeria in various fields, including health and scientific research.

Castro also said he expected to return to Algiers later this year.