France-Algeria Relations Reach New Low Amid Accusations of Interference

In a significant diplomatic escalation, Algeria has summoned the French Ambassador, Stéphane Romatet, over allegations of French intelligence services attempting to destabilize the North African country. This move comes amid growing tensions between the two nations, with potential far-reaching consequences for their bilateral relations.

Diplomatic Confrontation

• The Algerian Foreign Ministry summoned Ambassador Romatet to express "firm disapproval" of what it termed "French provocations and hostile acts".
• Algerian officials reportedly identified the French DGSE intelligence service as the source of these "malicious acts".
• The summoning is seen as a "severe warning" from Algiers to Paris, with Algerian media describing it as a "final notice".

Allegations of Destabilization

• Algerian state media aired a documentary claiming that Algerian intelligence had thwarted a plot by French intelligence services to destabilize Algeria.
• The accusations include attempts by French diplomats and agents to organize meetings with individuals showing "declared and permanent hostility toward Algerian institutions".

Potential Consequences

• The diplomatic crisis could lead to significant repercussions for Algeria, potentially pushing French President Emmanuel Macron to consider suspending the 1968 Agreements without discussion.
• These agreements currently provide numerous visas to Algerians and favorable settlement conditions compared to other diaspora communities.

Broader Context

• This incident occurs against a backdrop of strained relations, including France's recent shift in policy regarding Western Sahara, which favors Morocco's position.
• The tension also follows Algeria's withdrawal of its ambassador to France over the summer due to France's support for Morocco's autonomy plan for Western Sahara.

Implications for Regional Dynamics

• The diplomatic row could impact France's delicate balancing act between Algeria and Morocco, two former French colonies with competing interests in the region.
• It may also affect cooperation on issues such as migration control and economic partnerships in North Africa.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how France will respond to these accusations and whether this will lead to a significant shift in its approach to Algeria and the broader North African region.