Foreign Minister Barrot visits Algiers as both nations seek to restore security ties, trade relations, and trust after months of political tension.
France and Algeria have restarted high-level diplomatic talks in a renewed effort to mend increasingly strained relations. The move comes after nearly a year of silence and souring ties that have undermined both countries’ economic interests and derailed vital security cooperation in North Africa.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot touched down in Algiers on Sunday for a one-day visit, signalling Paris’ intent to stabilise a historically complex relationship and resume joint initiatives that have stalled amid political tensions.
“The resumption of cooperation is essential for the future of both our countries,” Barrot told the French National Assembly before his trip. “It is in the national interest, and in the interest of the millions of French citizens who maintain strong ties to Algeria.”
An estimated 10 per cent of France’s population—approximately 6.8 million people—are either of Algerian descent or have familial connections to the North African country. This social and cultural link underscores the significance of the two nations’ political and economic relationship.
Diplomatic Breakdown Over Western Sahara
Relations between France and Algeria took a sharp downturn last year after French President Emmanuel Macron voiced support for Morocco’s autonomy plan in Western Sahara—a disputed territory long claimed by the Algeria-backed Polisario Front.
The Western Sahara issue remains one of the most sensitive in North Africa. While Morocco controls much of the region, the Polisario Front continues to demand full independence, and Algeria has historically provided it with political, financial, and military support.
Macron’s position was seen in Algiers as an alignment with Morocco, Algeria’s rival, leading to an immediate diplomatic backlash. Algeria withdrew its ambassador, curtailed bilateral engagements, and reportedly began reducing France’s economic footprint in the country.
In the months that followed, French officials accused the Algerian government of implementing a policy designed to marginalise French businesses. As a result, bilateral trade has declined sharply—by as much as 30 per cent since the summer of 2024—impacting sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and communications.
Security Cooperation in Limbo
One of the most critical consequences of the diplomatic rift has been the collapse of long-standing security cooperation between the two nations. For years, France and Algeria worked closely on counterterrorism efforts, particularly in the Sahel region, where Islamist militancy poses a growing threat to regional and European stability.
However, since relations deteriorated, intelligence sharing and joint counterterrorism operations have been halted, leaving a critical gap in regional security efforts. French defence officials have privately voiced concern over the void left by Algeria’s disengagement, especially as extremist groups continue to expand their presence across the Sahel.
Barrot’s visit to Algiers is seen as an attempt to re-establish these security partnerships, with French diplomatic sources confirming that counterterrorism cooperation was high on the minister’s agenda.
Economic Ties in Need of Repair
Beyond security, France is also seeking to rebuild economic ties with Algeria, which remains one of its most significant trade partners in Africa. French companies once enjoyed strong positions in Algerian markets, particularly in energy and infrastructure, but recent political tensions have disrupted contracts and delayed new investments.
Energy cooperation is a key priority for Paris, particularly in light of Europe’s broader efforts to diversify energy sources and reduce dependence on Russian gas. Algeria is a major supplier of natural gas to Europe, and France has expressed interest in strengthening long-term energy agreements.
According to French officials, discussions in Algiers also included proposals for renewed investment in transport, digital infrastructure, and renewable energy, as well as easing of trade restrictions.
“There is a strong desire on both sides to move past the impasse,” said a senior French diplomat. “But rebuilding trust will take time, and it must be based on mutual respect and a shared vision for the future.”
Historical Legacy Still Lingers
The current tensions are only the latest chapter in a long and often difficult relationship shaped by colonial history. France ruled Algeria as a colony for more than 130 years before the North African nation won independence in 1962, following a brutal war that left deep wounds on both sides.
Though both countries have taken steps toward reconciliation in recent decades, historical grievances continue to influence political dynamics, often resurfacing during periods of diplomatic strain. French leaders have faced criticism at home and abroad for failing to fully acknowledge the legacy of colonialism and the trauma of the Algerian War.
Efforts to rebuild relations today are complicated by this shared past. Analysts say that any long-term rapprochement must involve open dialogue not only about strategic and economic interests but also about history, memory, and identity.
A Step Toward Normalisation
Despite the challenges, Barrot’s trip marks a significant step toward restoring normalcy between the two countries. By reopening dialogue and proposing new frameworks for cooperation, both sides appear willing to explore a reset in the relationship.
Publicly, the tone from both Paris and Algiers has shifted in recent weeks, with officials on both sides acknowledging the need for a more pragmatic and less politically charged approach to bilateral engagement.
Whether this new diplomatic effort will lead to concrete outcomes remains to be seen. But for now, the resumption of talks offers a rare opportunity to steer one of the Mediterranean’s most consequential partnerships back on course.
