Macron enforces tougher stance on Algeria amid worsening diplomatic ties

Friday 08 August 2025 - 11:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Macron enforces tougher stance on Algeria amid worsening diplomatic ties

France takes decisive measures to safeguard national interests

French President Emmanuel Macron has unveiled a firm policy shift towards Algeria, citing its lack of cooperation and escalating diplomatic tensions. In an exclusive letter published by Le Figaro, Macron instructed Prime Minister François Bayrou and his government to adopt “greater firmness and determination” in addressing Algeria’s actions, including its failure to meet migration obligations.

Visa restrictions and bilateral agreements under scrutiny

Macron’s directives include the formal suspension of the 2013 visa exemption agreement for Algerian officials and diplomatic passport holders. He also ordered limitations on short- and long-stay visas for Algerian nationals, emphasizing that these measures should be implemented immediately.

The suspension follows Algeria’s refusal to cooperate on the repatriation of its nationals subject to deportation orders and its lack of collaboration with France’s state services. Macron also noted Algeria’s restrictions on French diplomats, including expulsions and travel limitations.

The 1994 readmission agreement and the 2013 visa exemption deal, both pivotal to bilateral relations, are now in jeopardy. Macron stated that these measures aim to assert France’s expectations regarding migration cooperation.

Algeria’s actions exacerbate tensions

The strained relationship has been further aggravated by Algeria’s arrest of French-Algerian author Boualem Sansal, sentenced to five years in prison for supporting Morocco’s territorial integrity, and the detention of French journalist Christophe Gleizes. Macron criticized Algeria’s regime, accusing it of failing to respect its obligations under bilateral agreements and neglecting international norms.

Macron also expressed concern over Algeria’s refusal to accept the repatriation of dangerous individuals, including those released from French prisons or held in detention centers. He warned that these individuals pose significant risks to French security and outlined plans to impose house arrest for some of them.

Algeria-France ties worsen over Sahara

Relations between the two countries have deteriorated significantly since France’s recognition in July 2024 of Morocco’s sovereignty over Sahara. Paris has endorsed Morocco’s Autonomy Plan as the sole viable solution to the territorial dispute, a move that Algeria strongly opposes. In response, Algeria recalled its ambassador and condemned France’s position.

For decades, Algeria has supported Polisario, a separatist group that challenges Morocco’s territorial integrity. Macron’s alignment with Morocco signals a significant shift in France’s foreign policy, further straining its ties with Algeria.

Macron’s firm stance reflects France’s growing frustration with Algeria’s actions, marking a critical point in their already fragile diplomatic relationship.