On 31 July, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke with Algerian Foreign Minister Sabri Boukadoum on the phone.

Wang stressed that the ever-growing traditional friendship between China and Algeria, a testimony to the commitment of both Chinese and Algerian leaders, is further illustrated by the joint fight against COVID-19. It is the shared responsibility of both countries and in the common interests of the two peoples to carry forward this friendship.

Wang pointed out that Algeria is the first Arab country to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership with China. He expressed China's readiness to work with Algeria to draw up a new five-year plan for comprehensive strategic cooperation, coordinate anti-epidemic collaboration and orderly resumption of key projects, and further deepen Belt and Road cooperation. With these efforts, the two sides will create a new milestone in their friendship and cooperation.

Boukadoum emphasized the need to cherish and carry forward Algeria-China traditional friendship and deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership. Algeria, as one of the first countries to sign a Belt and Road cooperation agreement with China, is keen to expedite key BRI cooperation projects and looks forward to China playing an important role in more major projects in Algeria. He expressed Algeria's sincere appreciation for China's medical supplies and reaffirmed its readiness to work with China toward an early victory over the virus.

The two sides also exchanged views on issues of mutual interest. Boukadoum expressed strong concerns about the deteriorating situation in Libya and looks forward to China's constructive role. Wang outlined China's principled position on seeking political settlement of the issue.