France and Algeria are resuming dialogue after eight months of diplomatic strain. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot announced a “new phase” during his visit to Algiers, following a key call between Presidents Tebboune and Macron. The focus will be on security, migration, and economic cooperation, with plans to revitalize partnerships. Discussions also touched on visa policies and the plight of French-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, who faces legal challenges in Algeria.
Resumption of Dialogue Between France and Algeria
After enduring a challenging eight-month period marked by diplomatic tensions that nearly severed ties, it appears that France and Algeria are ready to engage in constructive dialogue once again. On April 6, during his visit to Algiers, Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot announced a significant shift in relations, declaring a ‘new phase’ for both nations.
Barrot expressed optimism following a lengthy meeting with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, stating, ‘We conveyed our mutual desire to lift the curtain and embark on a new chapter, aimed at establishing an equitable, tranquil, and cooperative partnership.’
Steps Towards Normalization and Cooperation
The French Foreign Minister emphasized his eagerness to visit Algeria shortly after the pivotal phone conversation on March 31 between Presidents Tebboune and Macron, which signaled a renewed commitment to bilateral dialogue. The two leaders have committed to revitalizing their relationship, focusing on enhancing security and migration cooperation.
‘France aims to move past the existing tensions while prioritizing efficiency and tangible outcomes,’ Barrot explained. He outlined plans to ‘reactivate all cooperation mechanisms,’ reinforcing the notion that ‘we are returning to normal.’ During a productive 1.75-hour discussion with his Algerian counterpart, Ahmed Attaf, a variety of topics were addressed.
Additionally, a meeting between French prefects and Algerian consuls is on the horizon, which is expected to address key issues such as security cooperation. Barrot mentioned that a strategic dialogue concerning the Sahel region, bordering Mali and Niger, is also in the works. Both nations share concerns regarding the potential return of jihadists from Syria.
Visa policies and the repatriation of individuals expelled from France were also discussed, with Barrot indicating that these matters would be handled according to existing agreements and procedures.
On the economic front, Barrot highlighted the challenges faced by the approximately 6,000 French companies operating in Algeria, particularly in sectors like agri-food, automotive, and maritime transport. President Tebboune expressed his intention to ‘revitalize’ economic ties, with a meeting scheduled for May 9 in Paris to bring together business leaders from both countries.
Finally, Barrot addressed the sensitive topic of Boualem Sansal, a French-Algerian writer currently facing legal troubles. He urged President Tebboune for a ‘gesture of humanity’ given Sansal’s advanced age and health issues. The 80-year-old author, who has been diagnosed with cancer, was sentenced to five years in prison by an Algerian court, a decision that has been appealed by both the prosecutor’s office and Sansal himself. Legal experts suggest that a reduced sentence or a presidential pardon may facilitate his early release, amid a backdrop of heightened tensions stemming from his arrest and previous political events.