Following a conciliatory interview with Algerian media, Abdelmadjid Tebboune has initiated a resumption of political dialogue with France, as well as a revival of security and migration cooperation. The French and Algerian presidents officially announced on Monday, in a phone call, a renewal of bilateral relations after several months of tension. According to a joint statement, this renewal specifically involves security and migration cooperation. «The importance of judicial cooperation between the two countries was emphasized, and the two presidents agreed to revive exchanges and collaborations in this area. The two heads of state also confirmed the upcoming visit to Algiers by the Minister of Justice, Mr. Gérald Darmanin.» Elysée Statement «The President of the Republic reiterated his confidence in President Tebboune's discernment and called for an act of clemency and humanity towards Mr. Boualem Sansal, due to his age and health condition,» the statement adds. The Franco-Algerian writer, sentenced last Thursday by an Algerian court to five years in prison, has been detained in Algeria since November. His incarceration is at the heart of the most severe diplomatic crisis between Paris and Algiers in decades. As part of this reconciliation process, «the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Mr. Jean-Noël Barrot, will visit Algiers on April 6 at the invitation of his Algerian counterpart, Mr. Ahmed Attaf,» the Elysée further specifies. The current crisis between the two countries is part of a tumultuous relationship, marked by recurring tensions, nearly 63 years after Algeria's independence. Tensions were exacerbated after the French president's recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara in July 2024.
