Algeria has vowed to respond to France’s recent decision to expel Algerian diplomats who lacked valid visas, saying it will take reciprocal measures in line with diplomatic norms.
“Algeria will apply the principle of reciprocity with strict proportionality, in response to France’s failure to honor its obligations under the 2013 visa exemption agreement for holders of diplomatic and service passports,” the statement read.
Breach of Diplomatic Protocol
Algeria also criticized the way French authorities communicated their decision — not through official diplomatic channels, but via selective leaks to the media orchestrated by the French Interior Ministry and police.
“This kind of communication is a blatant breach of diplomatic protocol and a serious violation of the 2013 agreement,” the ministry stated. “Algeria has not received a single official diplomatic notification from France on this matter.”
The Algerian side firmly rejected France’s claim that Algeria was the first to breach the agreement, calling the allegation “false and misleading.” It further accused the French government of intentionally undermining the deal while avoiding accountability.
Tensions Escalating
The dispute escalated after France announced it would expel Algerian diplomats without visas on May 14 — a response to Algeria’s earlier move to eject French diplomats on temporary missions.
Relations between the two countries have been strained since April, when three Algerian nationals were detained in France over alleged criminal activity. In retaliation, Algeria expelled 12 French embassy staff, giving them 48 hours to leave the country. France responded in kind.
Deeper Diplomatic Rift
Tensions go beyond the recent expulsions. In July 2024, Algeria recalled its ambassador from Paris after France publicly endorsed Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara, which Algeria opposes. Algeria supports self-determination for the Sahrawi people.
The diplomatic rift is also shaped by historical grievances. Algeria, a former French colony from 1830 to 1962, has repeatedly called on France to issue a full apology for crimes committed during its colonial rule — a demand that continues to stir public sentiment in both countries.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: PhR61/Creative Commons 2.0
Based on TASS materials