Algiers — In a significant step toward mending strained relations, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and French President Emmanuel Macron agreed to resume security and migration cooperation after a phone conversation on Monday.
The two leaders held an “open and cordial” discussion addressing recent tensions and expressed their commitment to reviving the fruitful dialogue established in August 2022, according to a statement released by the Algerian Presidency.
They emphasized the need for an equal partnership and agreed on “the immediate resumption of cooperation on migration in a credible, smooth, and effective manner.” The statement also announced that a joint commission of historians will resume work to address historical issues stemming from France’s colonial rule of Algeria from 1830 to 1962.
French Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin is expected to visit Algeria on April 6 to solidify progress in bilateral judicial cooperation. The two presidents also stressed the importance of enhancing economic collaboration in emerging sectors.
During the call, President Macron urged President Tebboune to consider granting a pardon to 80-year-old French-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, who was recently sentenced to five years in prison on charges of “undermining national unity,” citing humanitarian reasons related to his age and health.
The leaders agreed in principle to meet in person in the near future, signaling a hopeful turn in diplomatic relations that had recently been marred by disagreements over immigration policies, historical grievances, and regional disputes.
Algeria has been advocating for France to acknowledge the crimes committed during the 132 years of colonial rule, viewing such recognition as essential for overcoming past grievances and fostering stable, constructive ties. In a move reflecting this stance, Algeria’s parliament recently established a commission to draft a law criminalizing French colonialism.
