Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika sent on Friday a cable of condolences to Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz al Saud over the death of former foreign minister Saud al Faisal.

Bouteflika described al Faisal as a rare and prominent political figure.

He further said that the late diplomat was very wise in tackling Arab and Islamic issues.

He has been the kingdom's foreign minister for 40 years as he was appointed in 1975, before retiring in April. He was replaced on April 29 by Adel al Jubeir.