Algeria and France Reconcile: Key Decisions Announced After Historic Phone Call Between Presidents Tebboune and Macron

In a surprising turn of events, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and French President Emmanuel Macron spoke on the phone on March 31, 2025, marking the end of an eight-month diplomatic crisis between the two nations. The conversation highlighted key decisions aimed at resuming and enhancing cooperation.

The diplomatic tension between Algeria and France began on July 31, 2024, after President Macron's controversial recognition of the Moroccan territory of Western Sahara. Following months of media accusations and strained relations, the phone call between Tebboune and Macron set the stage for a renewed diplomatic engagement. In their discussions, both leaders emphasized the importance of rebuilding ties and addressing ongoing issues.

The decisions following the phone call include:

1. Resuming the dialogue on memory, initiated by the "Algiers Declaration of August 2022."

2. Returning to an "egalitarian" dialogue reflecting the humanitarian and strategic importance of the relationship between the two countries.

3. A commitment to work in a "spirit of friendship" to enhance bilateral relations.

4. Immediate resumption of security cooperation.

5. Renewed cooperation on migration issues, with a results-oriented approach.

6. The resumption of judicial cooperation, with a visit planned by French Minister of Justice Gérald Darmanin.

7. A focus on improving economic cooperation, including France’s support for revising Algeria's EU partnership agreement.

8. A call for clemency for Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, based on his age and health concerns.

9. An upcoming visit by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot to Algiers on April 6, 2025, to finalize an ambitious work program.

10. Agreement in principle for a future meeting between Presidents Tebboune and Macron.

This phone call signals a turning point in the bilateral relations between Algeria and France, with both leaders working toward a peaceful, cooperative future. The upcoming visit and continued dialogue promise a new era of collaboration between the two countries.