France Moves to Revoke 2013 Visa Agreement with Algeria Amid Escalating Diplomatic tensions
In a bold move that underscores the deepening rift between France and Algeria, French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin announced on Sunday his intention to “suppress” a 2013 Franco-Algerian intergovernmental agreement. This agreement currently allows members of the Algerian nomenklatura—those holding official or diplomatic passports—to travel to france without a visa.
Speaking on the LCI channel, Darmanin explained, “There is an agreement from 2013 which is a government agreement that allows those who have an official passport, an Algerian diplomatic passport, there are thousands of them, to come to France without a visa to be able to move freely.” He argued that targeting the Algerian leadership would be “more clever, more effective, and it can be done very quickly,” emphasizing the need to “remove this facility.”
This proposed measure, described as a “retaliatory action,” is not intended to affect the broader Algerian diaspora in France. Darmanin clarified that it would not impact “the 10% of our compatriots who have ties of blood,soil,culture” with France.
A Diplomatic Crisis in the Making
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The proclamation comes amid a sharp deterioration in Franco-Algerian relations, fueled by recent events. One such incident involved the arrest of a 59-year-old Algerian influencer, known as “Doualemn,” in Montpellier, southern France. His detention followed a contentious TikTok video, sparking outrage on both sides.
After being deported to Algeria on Thursday, Doualemn was sent back to France the same evening. A French judge afterward extended his detention by 26 days on Sunday. French interior Minister Bruno Retailleau accused Algeria of seeking to “humiliate France,” while the Algerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs dismissed the expulsion as “arbitrary and abusive.”
Darmanin weighed in on the escalating tensions, stating, “It is indeed a sovereign country that intends to say this, and they are right; we must respect them. But they must respect us too. algeria must respect France,France must respect Algeria.” He added, “we are in a very critical moment, and this humiliation that they want to put us through is not acceptable.”
Calls to Revisit Past Agreements
The 2013 visa agreement is not the only historical pact under scrutiny. Former French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal has called for the denunciation of the 1968 Franco-Algerian agreement, which grants Algerians a special status regarding movement, residence, and employment in France.
Darmanin acknowledged the outdated nature of the 1968 agreement, noting, “We can denounce it, revise it; it has been revised four times, it has also become a little obsolete.”
The Case of Boualem Sansal
Adding to the diplomatic strain is the arrest of Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, 75, in Algiers. Sansal, who is reportedly ill, has become a focal point in the ongoing tensions. Darmanin urged his release,stating,“He must regain his freedom as quickly as possible; Algeria,I think,would be honored to free him.”
Key Points at a glance
| Issue | Details |
|——————————-|—————————————————————————–|
| 2013 Visa Agreement | Allows algerian officials to travel to France without a visa. |
| Proposed Action | France seeks to revoke the agreement as a “retaliatory measure.” |
| 1968 Agreement | Grants Algerians special status in France; calls for revision or denunciation. |
| Doualemn case | Algerian influencer detained in France, sparking diplomatic tensions. |
| Boualem Sansal’s Arrest | Franco-Algerian writer detained in Algiers; France calls for his release. |
A Path Forward
As france and Algeria navigate this diplomatic minefield, the stakes are high. The proposed revocation of the 2013 agreement signals a hardening stance from France, while Algeria’s response underscores its commitment to sovereignty.
Darmanin’s remarks highlight the delicate balance of mutual respect required to mend relations. “algeria must respect France, France must respect Algeria,” he reiterated, emphasizing the need for dialog over confrontation.
For now, the future of Franco-Algerian relations hangs in the balance, with both nations grappling with historical grievances and contemporary challenges.
What do you think about France’s proposed measures? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
France and Algeria at a Crossroads: Expert Insights on teh 2013 Visa Agreement and Escalating Diplomatic Tensions
In a notable progress that highlights the growing tensions between France and Algeria, French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin recently announced plans to revoke a 2013 intergovernmental agreement.This agreement allows Algerian officials and diplomats to travel to France without a visa. The move comes amid a series of diplomatic disputes, including the arrest of an Algerian influencer and the detention of a Franco-Algerian writer. to shed light on the implications of these developments, we spoke with Dr. Amine Khaled, a renowned expert in Franco-Algerian relations and international diplomacy.
The 2013 Visa Agreement: A Retaliatory Measure?
Senior Editor: Dr. Khaled, thank you for joining us. Let’s start with the 2013 visa agreement. Minister Darmanin has described its revocation as a “retaliatory action.” What are yoru thoughts on this move?
Dr. Amine Khaled: Thank you for having me. The 2013 agreement was designed to facilitate diplomatic and official travel between the two nations. Revoking it is indeed a significant step, and it reflects France’s frustration with Algeria’s recent actions. Though, it’s critically important to note that this measure targets a specific group—Algerian officials and diplomats—rather than the broader Algerian population in France. While it might potentially be seen as a symbolic gesture, its practical impact on diplomatic relations could be profound.
The Doualemn Case: A catalyst for Tensions
Senior Editor: The arrest and deportation of Algerian influencer Doualemn have further strained relations. How significant is this incident in the broader context of Franco-Algerian diplomacy?
Dr. Amine Khaled: The Doualemn case is emblematic of the growing mistrust between the two nations. His arrest and subsequent deportation have been perceived as a provocation by Algeria, while France views it as a matter of law enforcement. The back-and-forth nature of his detention and the strong rhetoric from both sides underscore the fragility of the relationship. It’s a reminder that even seemingly minor incidents can escalate quickly in such a tense environment.
Revisiting the 1968 Agreement: A Necessary Step?
Senior Editor: Beyond the 2013 agreement,there are calls to revisit the 1968 Franco-Algerian agreement,which grants Algerians special status in France.Do you think this agreement is outdated, as some have suggested?
Dr. Amine Khaled: The 1968 agreement is a product of its time,reflecting the post-colonial dynamics between France and Algeria. While it has been revised multiple times, its core provisions are increasingly seen as incompatible with current realities. Revising or denouncing it could provide an opportunity to modernize the relationship, but it must be done carefully to avoid further alienating the Algerian diaspora in France, which plays a vital role in maintaining cultural and economic ties.
The Case of Boualem Sansal: A Test of Diplomacy
Senior Editor: The arrest of Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal has added another layer of complexity to the situation. What does his detention signify, and how might it impact bilateral relations?
Dr. Amine Khaled: Boualem Sansal’s arrest is deeply concerning, especially given his health condition and his status as a prominent intellectual. His case has become a focal point for human rights advocates and has drawn international attention. France’s call for his release is not just about one individual; it’s about upholding principles of freedom and justice. How Algeria responds will be a key indicator of its willingness to engage constructively with France.
A Path forward: Can Relations Be Repaired?
Senior Editor: Given the current state of affairs, what steps can both nations take to de-escalate tensions and rebuild trust?
Dr. Amine Khaled: The path forward requires a combination of pragmatism and mutual respect.Both France and Algeria must prioritize dialog over confrontation and address historical grievances while focusing on shared interests,such as economic cooperation and regional stability. Revising outdated agreements, as we’ve discussed, could be a starting point, but it must be accompanied by confidence-building measures and a commitment to resolving disputes through diplomatic channels.
Senior Editor: Thank you, Dr. Khaled, for your insightful analysis. It’s clear that the road ahead is fraught with challenges, but your perspective offers hope for a more constructive relationship between France and Algeria.
Dr. Amine Khaled: Thank you. I believe that with the right approach, both nations can navigate this challenging period and emerge with a stronger, more resilient partnership.
What are your thoughts on the future of Franco-Algerian relations? Share your comments below.
