French Ambassador Romatet Returns to Algiers as Relations Thaw
Image: Algerie Eco
Takeaway
The thawing relations between Algeria and France could lead to increased investment opportunities for French companies in Algeria, particularly in sectors where Algeria has been more open to partnerships with other nations. Investors should monitor policy changes and announcements related to French investment in Algeria, as well as developments in the Western Sahara dispute, which could impact the stability of the relationship.
French Ambassador to Algeria, Stéphane Romatet, returned to Algiers on May 8, 2026, over a year after being recalled by the French government in April 2025. On May 12, 2026, Romatet attended a speech by Angolan President João Lourenço before the Algerian Parliament at the Palais des Nations. Romatet stated that France and Algeria will work in the coming months to rebuild all ties damaged by the recent crisis between the two countries. He affirmed the decision to continue joint work between Algerian and French historians on the memory file, responding to a question about France's recognition of crimes committed on May 8, 1945.
Relations between Algeria and France have spanned over five centuries, marked by significant changes and periods of tension. Algeria achieved independence in the early 1960s after a war with France. Issues such as immigration, the nationalization of energy assets, and the legacy of French colonization have historically strained relations. In October 2021, tensions rose when French President Emmanuel Macron questioned Algeria's existence as a nation before French colonialism. In December 2025, the People's National Assembly of Algeria unanimously passed a law declaring French colonization a crime, demanding an apology and reparations from France.
The recent crisis between Algeria and France was triggered in July 2024 by President Macron's support for Morocco's claims over Western Sahara. This move angered Algeria, leading to the recall of its ambassador to France. The arrest of French-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal in November 2024, accused of undermining Algerian territory, further strained relations. A French judge has also questioned the integrity of administrative decisions made under former French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau against Algerian activists on social media.
Romatet emphasized France's commitment to reviving bilateral relations based on equality and respect to restore dialogue between the two countries. He highlighted the human connections forged by history between Algeria and France. Despite recent diplomatic progress, there appears to be no real political strategy in Algeria for redefining its relationship with France, which could lead to renewed stagnation. Some French diplomats have expressed frustration with Algeria's lack of openness to French investment, preferring economic protectionism and partnerships with countries like Italy and China.
In the coming months, Algeria and France are expected to continue addressing the sensitive issues surrounding their shared history. The unstable nature of regional alliances and the issue of Western Sahara could continue to be central points in the dialogue. The two countries will need to navigate these challenges to build a forward-looking partnership that addresses past grievances.