"The Algerian authorities have received assurances that firms and foreign employees will not leave Algeria, " said Energy Minister Youcef Yousfi.

BBC: In Amenas siege: Is Algeria's economy under threat?

As Western leaders condemned the kidnappings, Algerian Energy Minister Youcef Yousfi said Algeria would boost security at its energy installations without outside help.

BBC: Algeria crisis: Hostage-takers 'taken alive' at gas plant

The plant, which is responsible for more than a tenth of Algeria's overall gas output, is expected to resume production by Tuesday, Algeria's Energy Minister Youcef Yousfi said.

BBC: Algeria crisis: Hostage death toll 'rises to 48'

Energy and Mining Minister Youcef Yousfi, who a day earlier insisted Algeria can keep its gas facilities secure without foreign forces' help, said he believes the targeted gas facility will be back running "in the shortest possible time" and that foreign workers will soon return.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS