French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian has called for a restoration of “calm relations” between France and Algeria following months of heightened tensions.
Speaking in Algiers on Wednesday, Le Drian expressed hope for a return to peaceful dialogue between the two nations.
“I wish for our countries to return to a path of calm relations and look forward to the future,” Le Drian stated after meeting with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.
He emphasized the importance of resuming political discussions that had begun in 2022, addressing past grievances and overcoming misunderstandings.
Le Drian acknowledged Algeria as a “key partner” for France both bilaterally and regionally.
He noted that France and Algeria face significant challenges together, including terrorism in the Sahel region, illegal migration, and economic development issues. “Given our shared interests, our consultations are essential,” he added.
Le Drian’s visit aims to mend the strained relationship, which has deteriorated over the past two months following remarks made by French President Emmanuel Macron.
In October, Macron criticized the Algerian “military-political” system for exploiting the memory of the independence war and questioned the existence of an “Algerian nation” before French colonization.
These comments, reported by Le Monde, provoked a strong backlash in Algeria.
In response, Algeria recalled its ambassador from Paris and restricted French military aircraft from using its airspace.
The current diplomatic efforts reflect a mutual interest in addressing these historical and political tensions to improve bilateral relations.
