"Algerian and German authorities have today mutually agreed to postpone the official visit" of Merkel, the presidency said in a statement. Algeria is a key actor in seeking to stabilize neighbouring Libya, which has lacked a functioning government since the 2011 overthrow of Moamer Kadhafi and has become the main gateway for African migrants bound for Italy. She promoted similar cooperation efforts last October during visits to major migrant transit countries Mali and Niger, which border Algeria. Ultimately, Berlin has indicated it is hoping for some North African countries to set up holding facilities for African migrants rescued at sea, though no country has so far publicly voiced enthusiasm for the proposal. German Interior Minister Thomas de Maiziere last year visited all three Maghreb countries to urge better cooperation on repatriations.

Source: The Local February 20, 2017 12:11 UTC