Doha – Algeria has once again summoned the French Ambassador to Algiers, Stéphane Romatet, in protest over what it describes as the “discriminatory treatment” of Algerian citizens at Paris airports, escalating diplomatic tensions between the two nations.
This marks the second time in six weeks that Algeria has taken such a step, reflecting the deepening rift in Franco-Algerian relations, already strained by broader geopolitical issues, including France’s recent shift in stance on the Western Sahara dispute.
Diplomatic protest over alleged airport treatment
The latest row was sparked by allegations that Algerian travellers were subjected to “provocative, degrading, and discriminatory” treatment by French border police at Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports.
According to a statement from Algeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sofiane Chaib, Secretary of State for Algerians Abroad, conveyed his country’s “firm protestation” to Ambassador Romatet.
“Algeria categorically rejects any infringement on the dignity of its citizens or their instrumentalization for pressure, provocation, or intimidation attempts,” the ministry declared.
Chaib also demanded that France take immediate action to end what Algeria perceives as “unacceptable acts and practices” that tarnish the French government’s reputation.
A widening diplomatic rift
This incident follows a similar diplomatic summons in December 2024, when Algeria accused French intelligence services of engaging in “destabilising activities” and alleged involvement in smuggling weapons and ammunition into Algerian territory.
The repeated confrontations have led to sharp rebukes from French officials, who see Algeria’s diplomatic provocations as politically motivated.
French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu recently remarked that “not liking France has become a matter of domestic politics” in Algeria. He also called for a “complete reset” of Franco-Algerian relations.
Meanwhile, Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has advocated for stronger measures, including scrapping the 1968 Franco-Algerian immigration agreement, which grants Algerians preferential treatment regarding family reunification, business creation, and residence rights in France.
Western Sahara: The root of diplomatic tensions?
Franco-Algerian tensions have intensified since France recognised Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara in July 2024—a move that Algeria strongly opposed.
President Emmanuel Macron attempted to soften the impact of this decision by reassuring Algeria in an October speech to the Moroccan parliament that the shift in France’s stance was “not hostile to any party”. However, Algeria immediately recalled its ambassador from Paris and threatened sanctions affecting bilateral trade.
Despite officially claiming neutrality in the Western Sahara dispute, Algeria continues to arm, fund, and host the Polisario Front separatist group, which seeks independence for the Moroccan-administered territory.
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French public opinion turns against algeria
Algeria’s deteriorating ties with France are mirrored by a sharp decline in its reputation among the French public.
A recent Ifop-Fiducial poll, conducted in January 2025 for Sud Radio, found that:
- Only 29% of French respondents held a favourable opinion of Algeria.
- 71% had a negative perception of the North African country.
- Meanwhile, Morocco enjoys a 68% favourability rating among French respondents.
Furthermore, the poll revealed that:
- 74% of French citizens believe Algeria benefits more from its relationship with France than vice versa.
- 61% support revoking the 1968 Franco-Algerian immigration agreement, which grants Algerians special privileges in France.
What next for Franco-Algerian relations?
With Algeria continuing to apply diplomatic pressure while simultaneously supporting the Polisario Front, and France aligning with the growing international consensus on Morocco’s territorial integrity, relations between the two nations appear destined for further deterioration.
The next few months will be crucial, as both countries must decide whether to de-escalate tensions or risk a complete diplomatic breakdown.
