United Nations, January 22, SPA -- The UN Chief of Staff met with an Algerian permanent representative twice this weekend to reconcile misunderstandings on the UN-proposed independent panel into the bombing in Algiers, which the Algerian government was not consulted about. Permanent representative Youcef Yousfi told The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) that he held a discussion with Chief of Staff Vijay Nambiar last Friday concerning the investigation of the attack and have both agreed to continue discussions to find ways “to cooperate in a better manner.” Yousfi told SPA that his government is officially protesting the UN independent commission into the Algiers bombing, because they were not consulted. UN Spokeswoman Michele Montas told SPA on Monday that the UN has received a concerned letter from the Algerian Minister of state for Foreign Affairs, Mourad Medelci and have been in touch with Algerian authorities on the situation. She said the UN is “aware of their concern.” Montas told SPA, “We are making strenuous efforts to overcome any misunderstandings and to get the cooperation of the Algerian authorities with this independent panel.” Montas also said that the independent panel would report back to the Secretary General who will in turn work with the General Assembly “to ensure better safety and security through UN staff throughout the world.”--SPA www.spa.gov.sa/519920