Former French Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin has described the recent visit by French Minister Delegate Alice Roufo to Algeria as a step in the right direction, telling dzwatch exclusively that the ongoing stalemate between Paris and Algiers serves neither country’s interests.
Villepin — a vocal opponent of the 2003 US invasion of Iraq — made the remarks in comments broadcast today, addressing the latest French diplomatic moves, including Roufo’s visit alongside France’s ambassador to Algeria to commemorate the May 8, 1945 massacres and advance cooperation across multiple sectors.
When asked whether France’s deadlock with Algeria posed a strategic risk, the right-wing statesman answered firmly in the affirmative, arguing that Morocco remains a ‘key country in the region’ and that cooperation with it is vital — a framing that raised eyebrows given the ongoing tensions between Rabat and Algiers.
He also pointed to the deeply sensitive issue of expulsion orders against Algerian nationals on French soil as one of the critical obstacles straining bilateral ties that Paris must urgently address.
