Brussels, 09/02/2001 (Agence Europe) - Algeria and the EU, in this case the European Commission, are to resume their negotiations on 12 February in Algiers with a view to concluding an association agreement. This seventh round of talks, lasting two days, should make it possible not only to put the final touches to the chapters already approved by the two parties (political dialogue, economic cooperation) but also to enter into the heart of the subject on JHA aspects (mainly immigration and the freedom of movement for nationals of both parties). The aim is to speed up negotiations that had dragged along to date because Algiers felt the European offer was not suitable given its economic situation. Over coming weeks, the Algerian and European experts should focus - at the rate of one session per month, says an Algerian source - on the trade chapter of the agreement. It will also prepare a timetable for customs dismantling in order to boost the development of mutual trade. It is hoped all will be settled by the end of the spring.