Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika appeared in a video on Sunday for the first time in a month, since his abrupt cancellation of a meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Algiers triggered speculation over his health. In a video broadcast on Sunday on state television, Bouteflika was seen receiving his minister of Africa and Arab Affairs. It was his first such appearance since he postponed Merkel's visit to Algiers on February 20 citing acute bronchitis. Bouteflika was seen briefly, seated at a table with Minister Abdelkader Messahel, who state media reported had briefed him on Sunday on the situation in Mali, Libya and the Sahel. Ruling FLN party chief and other government supporters have dismissed speculation over Bouteflika's health since the Merkel cancellation.

Source: Egypt Independent March 20, 2017 03:56 UTC