French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has described the relations between Paris and Algiers as still being “completely frozen” since Algeria expelled 12 French diplomatic staff in mid-April. This action was mirrored by France in response.
Barrot confirmed that “the relationship remains stalled and completely frozen.” He explained that the French ambassador to Algeria, Stéphane Romatet, who was summoned “for consultations” at the request of President Emmanuel Macron, is still in Paris and no date has been set for his return to Algiers.
Barrot attributed this situation to “the Algerian authorities, who suddenly decided to expel 12 of our staff.” He added, “This is not just a sudden administrative decision; these are men and women who were suddenly forced to leave their families, children, and homes.”
In response to a question regarding the possibility of imposing “potential sanctions” against Algeria, Barrot reminded that he had taken measures earlier this year “to restrict the movement of prominent figures” in France, which he said “provoked significant resentment among the individuals concerned.” He added, “I would not mind taking additional measures. I will not necessarily declare when they will be taken or if they will be taken at all. That’s how diplomacy works.”
