Algiers – In a move seen as potentially vital for maintaining balanced relations between France and Algeria, prominent French politician Ségolène Royal has been elected as the head of the France-Algeria Association. She succeeds Arnaud Montebourg in this role.
Royal, known for her socialist leanings and advocacy for fraternal ties with Algeria, assumes leadership amidst ongoing complexities in the relationship between the two nations. Her appointment is viewed by some as a counter-balance to the more provocative stances of the French far-right and neo-conservative factions, which have often expressed hostile views towards Algeria.
The election of Royal was conducted by the association’s board of directors. The France-Algeria Association was initially founded in 1963 by a group of French political figures seeking to ensure the continuation of relations between Algeria and France following Algeria’s independence.
Royal brings a wealth of experience to the position, having served in numerous ministerial roles and even running for president in 2007 against Nicolas Sarkozy. Her political record has garnered her respect from allies and political opponents alike.
At 72 years old, Royal is well-regarded within Algerian political circles. Notably, she publicly criticized French President Emmanuel Macron’s decision last August to restrict visa access for Algerians seeking to enter France. She has remained a consistent voice for equitable relations between Algeria and France, contrasting with the positions held by figures such as Marine Le Pen and former Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau.
In March, Royal expressed her willingness to contribute to easing tensions between the two countries, which had reached a critical point following aggressive campaigns launched by the French right-wing and neo-conservative elements.
Observers of Algerian-French relations emphasize that any successful mediation efforts must address complex issues. These include the unresolved matters of historical memory, the French position on the Western Sahara issue, and the pursuit of balanced economic and trade relations, which Algeria seeks to achieve.
