Algerian authorities have issued a strong statement against the French government’s initiative to revise the 1968 migration agreement that gives Algerian citizens special conditions to enter, live and work in France.
The reaction followed the words of Prime Minister Francois Bayrou, who during a cabinet meeting suggested that the agreement should be reviewed within six weeks.
In response, Algeria’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement categorically rejecting Paris’ initiative, emphasising that the country does not accept ultimatums and threats, and will apply the principle of reciprocity if necessary.
“Any interference with the 1968 agreement, whose content and essence have already been nullified, will lead to similar measures against other agreements and protocols of the same category,” the Algerian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
Algeria emphasised that it will not allow pressure from France. It is noteworthy that the statement was issued shortly after the meeting of the Supreme National Security Council held by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.
The migration agreement between France and Algeria was signed in 1968. It regulates the entry, exit, employment and residence of Algerians in France, giving them favourable conditions compared to citizens of other countries.
Nicolas Dupont-Aignan, leader of the party Debout la France (France Arise), wrote on X:
“Algeria humiliates us, refuses to take back its delinquent illegal immigrants and treats France like a doormat. If E. Macron still does not want to denounce the 1968 agreement, then Bruno Retailleau, who is a sincere man, should, out of political consistency, resign.”
