Algeria announced on Sunday that it endorses the UN resolution authorizing an African-led international military intervention in Mali, saying it highlights the approach that Algiers has been advocating since the outbreak of the conflict in the north of the country.

"This resolution reaffirms the fundamental elements for a way- out to the crisis in Mali, including the central role of Malians in any process aiming at reaching a solution to their crisis, as well as considering explicitly that AQIM and MUJAO as the real threat to the Sahel region," APS quoted spokesman for the Foreign Ministry Amar Belani as saying.

On Thursday, the UN Security Council agreed to authorize an African-led international military intervention to support Mali in its fight against terrorists and armed rebel groups in the north of the country.

Belani further added that Algeria "reiterates its commitment to continue its efforts to help meeting the conditions for credible and inclusive dialogue between Malians, providing humanitarian assistance and contributing in reinforcing the national capacity of Mali."

"Any military operation in Mali should target terror groups and organized crime gangs," said the official, adding that these conditions are "clearly identified in the UN resolution, which should meet requirements for its success, including in terms of planning, mobilization of resources and expertise, as well as assuring that civilians are well protected from this action."

However, Algeria is concerned that a military intervention in Mali would increase the number of Malian refugees who would flow on its southern border.

Minister of Interior, Daho Ould Kablia, said a week ago that Algeria is taking care of 25,000 African refugees who fled armed conflicts hitting their countries. Endi

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