Macron urges stricter measures towards Algeria

French President Emmanuel Macron has instructed his government to suspend a 2013 agreement with Algeria that allowed visa-free entry to France for Algerian diplomats and official passport holders, according to Reuters.

The decision comes amid rising tensions between France and its former colony, driven by multiple disputes. These include Algeria’s refusal to accept deported nationals from France and the imprisonment of Boualem Sansal, a French-Algerian writer known for criticizing the Algerian regime. France has consistently called for Sansal’s release, but to no avail.

In a letter to French Prime Minister François Bayrou, Macron argued that disagreements over migration and security necessitate a firmer approach toward Algiers.

"France must be strong and command respect. It can only receive this from its partners if it shows them the respect it demands from them. This basic rule also applies to Algeria," Macron stated.

Macron is also urging his Interior Minister to coordinate with other Schengen countries to enforce tighter visa rules, including being consulted before granting short-stay visas to Algerian officials.

Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has long advocated for stricter visa controls targeting Algerian government personnel.

Diplomatic friction between the two countries worsened after France officially recognized Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara—a territory where Algeria supports the independence-seeking Polisario Front.