Summary:

On 15 January, French Minister of Foreign Affairs (MFA), Jean-Noël Barrot, addressed the recent tensions with Algeria in his speech to the Ministers of Parliament in the National Assembly. 

The MFA explained in the speech that “neither France nor Algeria have an interest in raising a lasting tension.” Barrot also stated that he is “ready to visit Algeria to address all the issues and not just those that have been in the news in recent weeks. “ 

A meeting between French President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Francois Bayrou is planned in the next days to “evaluate and decide over the measures to be taken,” the MFA confirmed.  

A day prior, French journal Le Figaro reported that Director of Foreign Security (DGSE), Nicolas Lerner, went to Algiers on 13 January most probably to discuss Algerian accusations of DGSE operations intended to destabilize the country. 

Tensions erupted between Algeria and France after Algiers’ denial of the return of an Algerian influencer who was expelled from France. This contributed to increased frustrations already present since France’ recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara.  

Outlook: 

The latest statements from the French MFA and the reported visit of by the DGSE director to Algeria point to French attempts to reinitiate dialogue with Algeria and prevent a diplomatic crisis. 

This move appears intended to balance more aggressive statements from French officials, including the Ministers of Interior and Justice, who called for the review of existing accords on migration and development aid. 

Additionally, France is likely trying to push Algeria toward reconciliation by showing that it is costly for Algeria if France proceeds with reviewing economic and migration cooperation. 

As no positive response from Algerian authorities has been issued, France will likely continue moving toward some form of retaliatory measures as a show of strength following what its officials called a “humiliating act from Algeria.” 

While these tensions are likely to move France closer to Morocco, Algeria will also seek alternative partnerships with Western countries in the same manner it is developing its cooperation with Italy. 

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