Algiers – The upcoming visit of French Interior Minister, Laurent Nunez, to Algeria could represent a turning point in bilateral relations, according to Dr. Rachid Ben Aissa, an expert in international relations and strategic affairs. In exclusive statements to DZWatch, Dr. Ben Aissa emphasized that the visit’s success hinges on a genuine political will from the French side to translate diplomatic rhetoric into tangible actions.
Ben Aissa expressed cautious optimism, noting Nunez’s apparent acknowledgement of the failure of confrontational policies towards Algeria. “This is a rare admission in the often rigid French diplomatic discourse,” he stated. He believes the visit signals a serious effort to recalibrate relations between the two nations. However, he cautioned against expecting immediate breakthroughs, citing the complex and historically burdened nature of Algeria-France relations.
The strategic expert highlighted the high-level coordination between President Macron and President Tebboune, facilitated by German mediation, as a positive sign. This indicates that the issue is being managed at the highest political level, rather than being treated as a mere diplomatic matter.
Regarding the potential for progress, Ben Aissa asserted that the visit could be productive, provided certain conditions are met. He pointed to Algeria’s recent release of writer Boualem Sansal as a positive gesture, describing it as both a humanitarian and political move that deserves a reciprocal response from France.
“Stagnation will not be overcome by mere diplomatic pleasantries,” Ben Aissa stressed. “Concrete steps on the ground are needed.” He urged France to demonstrate that its changed rhetoric is accompanied by a genuine shift in its policies towards Algeria, warning against…
