§ Lord Aveburyasked Her Majesty's Government:
What results have been achieved through the European Union human rights dialogue with Algeria; when the next round of such dialogue will take place; and whether they have any plans for enhancing the dialogue as part of the United Kingdom's presidency of the European Union. [HL1483]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanDuring the course of 2005, the European Union (EU) intends to hold human rights sub-committees with all Mediterranean partner countries that have a functioning association agreement. During our EU presidency, we will co-chair these human rights subcommittees with the Commission. We expect Algeria to ratify its association agreement this year. Pending ratification of the association agreement, the EU has reminded Algeria of its ongoing interest in Algeria's human rights situation.
During our presidency we will co-host with Spain an event to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Barcelona process. Political and economic reform will be major themes of discussion at that event.