France and Algeria have started high level discussions to rebuild their relationship after months of strained ties that impacted trade, security collaboration, and mutual trust. French Foreign Minister Jean Noel Barrot arrived in Algiers on Sunday, after a phone call between him and Abdelmadjid Tebboune, President of Algeria. who decided it was time to ease tensions. The talks will focus on various issues, including economic cooperation and migration, both of which are vital for the two countries, given France’s large Algerian diaspora and Algeria’s key position in regional security.
Since the middle of 2023, trade between the two countries has dropped by 30%, and French wheat exports have been particularly affected. Algeria, which used to be a major buyer of French wheat, has largely cut out French suppliers from recent deals, saying they weren't up to standard. French traders have reported only one shipment this season, a significant decline from what they’ve seen in previous years. While Algeria denies any bias, French officials are accusing Algiers of blocking business permits and financing.
Cooperation on counterterrorism and judicial issues hit a snag after Algeria detained French Algerian author Boualem Sansal in November 2023. With Sansal facing a five year prison sentence, the situation has become a major point of contention, as France is pushing for a presidential pardon. On top of that, Macron’s 2022 support for Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara is something Algeria sees as a betrayal. It is unlikely progress will be made if France does not change it's position, which is unlikely.