Algeria Revokes Privileged Airport and Port Access for French Diplomats Amidst Escalating Tensions between the two countries.
This retaliatory action follows reports that Paris is considering restricting Algerian diplomats’ movement in France—and comes after France already stripped 80 Algerian officials of their diplomatic privileges.
The Algerian Foreign Ministry stated that, based on the principle of reciprocity, it has withdrawn all access privilege cards for French embassy personnel in Algeria with immediate effect.
The ministry also summoned the French chargé d’affaires in Algiers due to continued obstructions faced by the Algerian embassy in Paris.
The diplomatic dispute appears to stem from France’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara, a stance opposed by Algeria, which supports a referendum on the territory’s self-determination.
Previous escalations include Algeria expelling French civil servants and diplomats, with France responding in kind. France has also imposed visa requirements for Algerian diplomats and civil servants.
The two countries have been allies for years as they exchange exchange economic stimulus, and security ties.
France of late has been in receiving ends among Africa Countries, cutting ties with French.
Burkina Faso is among those who ended diplomacy relationships with France.
