ILO Director-General on official visit to Algeria

ALGIERS (ILO News) - Upon invitation of H.E, Mr. Mohammed El Ghazi , Minister of Labour, Employment and Social Security of Algeria, ILO Director-General Guy Ryder visited Algiers to meet and discuss with the tripartite constituents of the country.

During his visit, Mr Ryder discussed with H.E. President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, H. E. Ramtane Lamamra, the Minister of Labour, Employment and Social Security, H.E. Mohamed El Ghazi and the Secretary General of the General Union of Algerian Workers (UGTA), Abdelmajid Sidi Said.

"President Bouteflika discussed the situation in the world and the need to promote social progress as collateral for the stability of the country", Mr Ryder stated. He also underscored the link between growth and employment and the key role of the private sector in creating jobs.

"It is necessary to place decent employment at the heart of growth", the ILO Head said adding that "we must pay special attention to small and medium enterprises, including in terms of social legislation, because they play a key role in job creation".

The ILO Director-General praised the major role that Algeria plays in promoting the multilateral system.

In the framework of the south-south cooperation program, the ILO and Algeria signed an agreement to share the country's existing experience and knowledge in social dialogue and social protection among African countries.

Mr Ryder described as "historic" the relationship between the ILO and Algeria.