Xavier Driencourt, a prominent former French ambassador to Algeria, is at the heart of diplomatic news as he advocates a radical change in Franco-Algerian relations. His declaration, “We must establish a balance of power with Algeria,” resonates as a call to action. In this in-depth article, we will explore the multiple facets of this declaration and examine the complex issues underlying relations between France and Algeria.
The Algerian Enigma:
Xavier Driencourt begins by explaining why he describes Algeria as an “enigmatic country”. Despite 132 years of French colonization, he maintains that France does not truly understand this country. Algeria remains for her an enigmatic territory, closed, opaque, and mysterious. Economic relations with Algiers are also a point of concern, with France now competing with players such as China, Italy, Spain, and Germany.
Evolution of Franco-Algerian Relations:
Instead of describing a clear evolution, Mr. Driencourt evokes a recurring pattern in Franco-Algerian relations, which he compares to a CAC 40-type phenomenon, characterized by ups and downs. He considers that the relationship between the two countries is sinusoidal, marked by periods of tension and reconciliation. However, he has seen a deteriorating trend recently. Recent examples include Algeria’s decision to ban the teaching of French in private schools and the reintroduction of anti-French elements into its national anthem.
The Algeria Priority Trap:
Xavier Driencourt also questions the policy of priority granted to Algeria by France to the detriment of other partners, such as Morocco. He considers that this approach has turned into a trap, generating tensions and misunderstandings with Algiers, while leading to disagreements with Morocco, which demands that France recognize its sovereignty over Western Sahara.
France in a Worrying Situation:
The interview also discusses recent events, such as the postponement of President Tebboune’s visit to France, the hostile remarks added to the Algerian national anthem, and Algeria’s relations with Russia. Mr. Driencourt believes that France has lost its influence, in particular, because of its economic difficulties. The Abraham Accords and the normalization of relations between Morocco and Israel are pushing Algeria to move closer to Russia, its historic ally.
Algeria at the Gates of BRICS:
Finally, the discussion focuses on the status of Algeria at the gates of the BRICS, despite its relations with Moscow. Mr. Driencourt considers that although this is a snub for Algeria, it should not immediately influence its international policy. He mentions the need to observe the presidential elections of December 2024 to assess the stability of the Algerian leadership.
Questioning the Franco-Algerian Agreement of 1968:
In conclusion, Mr. Driencourt firmly supports the need to review the Franco-Algerian agreement of 1968, which defines the conditions of movement, stay, and work of Algerians in France. This proposal, initially put forward by him last May, has since been taken up by several French political figures.
This in-depth analysis of Xavier Driencourt’s remarks highlights the complex issues in Franco-Algerian relations and calls for more nuanced reflection and deliberate action to restore balance in these important relations for both countries.
