France has refrained from directly responding to Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s accusations of maintaining a colonial attitude, instead highlighting the “shared interests” between the two nations.
In a written statement, the French Foreign Ministry avoided commenting on Tebboune’s call for France to acknowledge crimes committed during Algeria’s struggle for independence. The ministry emphasized the strong human ties and mutual interests linking the countries, as well as shared concerns about regional security. France reiterated its desire to strengthen relations in various sectors and stressed the importance of dialogue.
Tebboune’s remarks on December 30, 2024, accused France of perpetuating colonial practices, continuing the tense relationship between the nations. Algeria had previously accused French intelligence of destabilizing the country by reactivating former terrorist groups, leading to diplomatic confrontations.
The strained ties are also fueled by France’s support for Morocco’s autonomy plan in the disputed Western Sahara region, a move that angered Algeria, a supporter of independence for the region. In response, Algeria recalled its ambassador from Paris in July 2024.
In addition to geopolitical tensions, unresolved historical issues continue to challenge relations. These include Algeria’s demand for the return of its archives, repatriation of revolutionary leaders’ remains, compensation for victims of France’s nuclear tests in the Algerian desert, and information on the fate of 2,200 individuals who disappeared during Algeria’s War of Independence (1954–1962).