LETTER: Blame on all sides in Algerian war

Sir: Although I find Dr George Stadler's concern as to the potential repercussions of the Algerian drama on Europe (Letters, 6 February) justified, I disagree with some of the preventative solutions he advocates. The Western unconditional support to "secular", but despotic and often corrupt and mediocre, governments in the Middle East and North Africa has led, and will always lead, to extremist and understandably anti-Western insurrections.

It is only by supporting the democratic opposition in Algeria that Europe can ensure a peaceful and stable Mediterranean neighbourhood.

Yours sincerely, Hafid Benchaoui Glasgow 7 February