Algiers – The French Minister of Interior, Laurent Nunez, has announced a comprehensive review of the 1968 migration agreement with Algeria. This review will be a key element of ongoing consultations between the two nations, encompassing several significant issues, notably consular permits.
According to statements made by Nunez to Le Journal du Dimanche, a delegation from the French Ministry of Interior visited Algeria last week in preparation for his upcoming visit. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral coordination between France and Algeria.
The discussions have reportedly reached an advanced stage, focused on re-establishing a regular and consistent system for repatriation operations between Algeria and France. This reflects Paris’s commitment to resolving outstanding issues between the two countries.
France’s move to revise the 1968 agreement coincides with the Algerian Parliament’s first-ever discussion of a bill criminalizing French colonialism in Algeria. The Speaker of the People’s National Assembly, Ibrahim Boughali, emphasized that this measure represents a sovereign act, a moral stance, and a clear political message regarding Algeria’s commitment to defending its national memory and preserving the dignity of its people.
Algerian-French relations have been gradually returning to a path of de-escalation after a period of tension. Initial signs of improvement emerged with the presidential pardon and subsequent release of Algerian-French writer Boualem Sansal, followed by a visit to Algiers by Anne-Marie Descôtes, Secretary-General of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
Nunez indicated that he has adopted a more conciliatory approach towards Algeria compared to his predecessor, Bruno Retailleau, expressing his desire to settle bilateral relations and foster dialogue between the two nations.
