In a major diplomatic development, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and French counterpart Emmanuel Macron held an open and cordial phone call on Monday. The two leaders agreed to immediately restart security cooperation and address migration challenges with renewed energy. 😎
The discussion marked a return to the productive dialogue first established in August 2022. Both sides stressed the need for an equal exchange and swift action to resume cooperation on migration, showing commitment to build trust and resolve lingering tensions.
A key part of the renewed efforts is the Joint Commission of Historians, which will tackle historical grievances linked to the 132-year period of French colonial rule in Algeria. The commission, initially set up in 2022, is expected to present concrete proposals by this summer.
Additionally, judicial collaboration is set to be revived with French Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin anticipated to visit Algeria in the near future. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot is also scheduled to travel to Algiers on April 6 as both sides explore further progress.
In a human touch to this dialogue, Macron encouraged Tebboune to consider a pardon for French-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, highlighting the importance of addressing not only political but also human and historical issues within bilateral relations.
This move comes at a time when tensions had been rising over migration challenges, historical memory issues, and disputes over economic partnerships. Young people, professionals, and global observers will be watching as Algeria and France work to strengthen ties that navigate past disputes towards a brighter future.
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Algeria, France agree to resume security cooperation amid rift
cgtn.com
