Diplomatic Tensions Rise as Algeria Expels French Officials
France is set to respond strongly to Algeria's expulsion of 15 French officials, a move called 'unjustified' by Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot. The diplomatic rift is part of the ongoing tension worsened by disagreements over Western Sahara, impacting economic, security, and social ties between the two nations.
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Relations between France and Algeria have further deteriorated following Algeria's expulsion of 15 French officials, described as 'unjustified' by France's Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot. This action exacerbates an already strained relationship marked by disagreements on the Western Sahara conflict.
Diplomatic ties saw a brief improvement last month after a visit by Barrot to Algiers, but tensions resumed with reciprocal expulsions. Algeria's press agency APS reported that 15 French diplomatic agents were declared in irregular positions and face expulsion.
In response, Barrot announced from Normandy that France would react in a 'strong and proportionate' way, following similar expulsions from France impacting the Algerian consular network. The diplomatic fallout carries implications for economic ties and the substantial Franco-Algerian diaspora.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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