A French Member of Parliament has stated that officially condemning French colonialism in Algeria could provide the ethical and political foundation necessary for rebuilding trust between the two nations. Sabrina Sebaihi, a Green Party MP, believes such a move is crucial at a time when the French right-wing is attempting to impose a revisionist interpretation of the past.
Speaking to DZWatch, Sebaihi emphasized that the relationship between Algeria and France transcends temporary crises and media debates. She urged both countries to seize the opportunity presented by the current period of relative calm to rebuild their relationship on a new foundation based on historical truth.
Sebaihi explained that her frequent visits to Algeria are driven by a firm belief that parliamentarians have a vital role to play whenever relations between governments falter or stagnate. She highlighted this role as maintaining high-level communication channels and strengthening ties between the two peoples, particularly in areas such as historical memory, culture, and youth. The goal, she asserted, is to build a balanced and friendly relationship based on equality and mutual respect.
During a recent meeting with the Speaker of the People’s National Assembly of Algeria, Brahim Boughali, Sebaihi stated that discussions covered a wide range of issues related to the bilateral relationship. She stressed the importance of continued in-depth exchanges at the highest levels. Topics discussed included parliamentary diplomacy, security matters, the situation of French citizen Christophe Glee, and cooperation in combating climate change. She described the meeting as constructive.
Regarding the Algerian parliament’s unanimous approval of a bill criminalizing French colonialism, Sebaihi, while acknowledging her position as a member of the French Parliament, stated she must refrain from commenting directly on laws passed by the Algerian legislature. However, she acknowledged the symbolic importance of such a move.
DZWatch will continue to monitor developments in the relationship between Algeria and France.
