A Romanian "lost his life" in the hostage crisis in Algeria

A Romanian "lost his life " in the hostage crisis in Algeria, said Prime Minister Victor Ponta at the Foreign Ministry headquarters.

The family of the deceased has been informed by authorities and has their support, said Victor Ponta.

He added that the fifth English hostage in Algeria has been freed and is in the custody of the Algerian army.

Three other Romanian citizens were released from captivity on Friday, also said the Prime Minister.

Their health condition is good, "added Victor Ponta.

The Prime Minister also said that there is currently no information about a terrorist threat to Romania but we have taken seriously the threats and dangers in conflict zones.

Both the Prime Minister and the Foreign Minister Titus Corlatean expressed compassion and solidarity to the family of the Romanian citizen died in Algeria.

Engagement "with allies" to combat terrorism

The Foreign Minister said that Romania is to get involved in the fight against international terrorism in order to keep it as far away from the borders of the country.

And he said that considering the security structures but also in Parliament that Romania's strategy to remain involved with its allies in the fight against terrorism, "a very serious phenomenon to the world in which we live".

Victor Ponta added that he discussed with President Traian Basescu that the Romanian authorities will remain possible with European and Atlantic partners and that a decision will be taken in this regard at the CSAT meeting , said it would be held "as soon as possible, probably on February 5."

Hundreds of people were taken as hostages Wednesday at a gas-processing complex in Algeria by an Islamic Commando.

Among the captives were also found five citizens.

The Islamists have announced that kidnapping is a gesture of revenge for France's intervention in Mali and Algeria has allowed aircraft to fly over French territory.

Translated by Denisse-Meda Bucura