[ecr]

In a speech he gave at the opening of this meeting, in the presence of ministers, top officials  and Mujahideen, the Minister of Finance, Laaziz Faid, hailed “the Algerian Customs’ vital role and the permanent presence of their units throughout the country’s land, maritime and air borders.”

 He also hailed “the Algerian customs’ honorable achievements in various fields,” highlighting that “they have demonstrated their competence in the field and made considerable efforts to serve and protect the national economy and citizens against all forms of threat to the country's security and stability".

From his part, The Minister of Mujahideen and Right Holders, Laïd Rebiga, described the customs as “protectors of the national economy.” This body deserves recognition and gratitude, he said, paying tribute to the customs’ officers who were martyred during their national duty.

 The General Director of Customs, Major General Abdelhafid Bakhouche, said that the DGD reaffirmed, on the occasion of the Independence Day, its commitment to the celebration of the historical milestones, which allow the Customs’ members to “get inspiration from the values of resilience, loyalty and sense of belonging to the homeland in order to carry out their professional duties with self-sacrifice and dedication.”[/ecr]