ALGIERS, June 14 (Xinhua) -- The 53rd International Fair of Algiers kicked off on Tuesday with the participation of more than 700 companies, including 187 foreign companies from about 20 countries.

       The fair, one of the largest in Africa, is the most prominent economic event in Algeria as it provides an exceptional opportunity for foreign firms and investors to explore the Algerian market.

       Several economic conferences are scheduled to be held at the fair to discuss investment opportunities, underlining the North African nation's bid to boost cooperation with foreign firms in the fields of industry, trade, and technology so to diversify its oil-dependent economy.

       The fair is seen as a major platform for promoting Algerian products and making win-win deals with foreign partners wishing to invest in Algeria.

       This year's fair came back after a two-year hiatus due to the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.