Algeria has warned France against altering a 1968 migration agreement that regulates the movement and residency of Algerian citizens in France.
The warning came after French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou announced a review of all immigration agreements between Paris and Algiers. The review, expected to last six weeks, will focus on the 1968 deal, signed six years after Algeria gained independence from France in 1962.
The 1968 agreement allows Algerian citizens to enter, live, and work in France under special terms. It has been revised several times. In 1986, France introduced a visa requirement for Algerians, a change many saw as breaking away from the original spirit of the deal.
Algeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a firm statement, warning, “Any tampering with the 1968 agreement, which has already been stripped of its essence and substance, will result in Algeria taking a similar decision regarding other agreements and protocols of the same nature.”
This suggests Algeria might reconsider its stance on other bilateral agreements, which could impact diplomatic and economic relations.
Algeria also stressed its “absolute rejection of being addressed with ultimatums, warnings, or threats,” showing firm resistance to any diplomatic pressure from Paris.
Relations between Algeria and France have long been tense due to unresolved issues from France’s colonization of Algeria from 1830 to 1962. Despite recent efforts to improve ties, France has faced criticism for not fully addressing its colonial legacy. This continues to strain relations.
The planned review of the 1968 migration deal could add more tension to this complex relationship. If changes are made, it could affect thousands of Algerians living in France. It could also impact trade, security cooperation, and regional stability.