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HomeEconomyFrance, Israel, Morocco, United States… Tebboune Unveils Algeria's New Roadmap

France, Israel, Morocco, United States… Tebboune Unveils Algeria’s New Roadmap

Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune spoke in an interview with the French newspaper L’Opinion, where he addressed several sensitive issues, including relations with France, the United States, Morocco, China, as well as international matters such as Palestine, Ukraine, and Western Sahara.

His statements indicate a shift in Algerian diplomacy and the management of tensions with Paris.

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Persistent Crisis with France: Between Tensions and Firmness
For several months, relations between Algiers and Paris have been going through a turbulent period. Abdelmadjid Tebboune did not mince words when responding to recent attacks from the French far-right and statements by certain political figures, including Éric Ciotti and Jordan Bardella, who described Algeria as a “hostile regime.” For him, these attacks are not only unjustified but also indicative of some circles in France wanting to maintain a neocolonial stance.

The Algerian president also criticized the slow pace of French diplomacy in responding to Algeria’s requests, stating that “nothing moves forward except for commercial relations.” However, he assured that Algeria remains ready to resume dialogue, provided “strong statements” are made by President Emmanuel Macron.

A Diplomatic Turn: Algeria Will No Longer Rely on the French Medical System
One of the highlights of this interview was the announcement of a radical change in health cooperation between the two countries. Abdelmadjid Tebboune declared that Algeria would no longer transfer its patients to French hospitals. This decision comes as the French far-right, particularly the National Rally, has reignited the debate over the cost of care for Algerian patients in France.

According to Tebboune, the controversy is unfounded. He revealed that the actual amount of Algeria’s hospital debt to France is €2.5 million, not the €45 million claimed by some French media. He also affirmed that Algeria always pays its bills and that this decision primarily aims to ensure health independence and diversify medical partnerships.

From now on, Algerian patients will be directed to other countries like Belgium, Italy, or Turkey. This announcement marks a break with a long tradition of health cooperation and could have a significant economic impact on French hospitals.

Palestine and Israel: Algeria’s Unchanged Stance
Regarding the situation in the Middle East, Abdelmadjid Tebboune reaffirmed Algeria’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause. He emphasized that his country would only recognize Israel on the condition of the establishment of a viable Palestinian state. “The day there is a Palestinian state, we will immediately normalize our relations with Israel,” he stated.

The president recalled that Algeria has worked to get Palestine recognized by 143 member states of the UN and will continue to advocate for Palestinian rights on the international stage. He also denounced the actions of the Israeli government in Gaza, criticizing the position of major powers for “turning a blind eye” to the violence against civilians.

Western Sahara: A Warning to France
On the issue of Western Sahara, Abdelmadjid Tebboune issued a warning to France regarding any potential recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over this territory. During his last meeting with Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the G7, he reportedly told him, “You are making a grave mistake! You will gain nothing and lose us.”

Algeria maintains its position in favor of a solution in line with UN resolutions and rejects any attempt to legitimize Moroccan occupation. Tebboune stressed that the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic is recognized by the African Union and that a large part of the international community supports the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination.

Morocco: A Diplomatic Chess Game
When questioned about relations with Morocco, Tebboune adopted a measured stance, likening the situation to “a game of chess.” According to him, each diplomatic move by Algeria provokes a reaction from Rabat, and vice versa. He discussed ongoing tensions between the two countries, particularly concerning Western Sahara and Morocco’s relations with Israel.

The Algerian president also denounced certain “hostile maneuvers” by the kingdom, especially through military alliances with countries outside the region.

“We see actions that do not promote good neighborliness, but we act with wisdom and patience,” he declared, while reaffirming that the Moroccan people remain “brothers.”

Relations with the United States: An Evolving Cooperation
Tebboune also spoke about the relations between Algeria and the United States, claiming they have remained stable even during Donald Trump’s presidency. He reminded that Algeria has historically maintained good relations with Washington, with many economic projects implemented in partnership with American companies, particularly in the hydrocarbon sector.

However, the Algerian president expressed concerns about recent statements by Donald Trump regarding Palestine and the management of international conflicts. He assured that Algeria would remain committed to its policy of non-alignment and non-interference while seeking to preserve its strategic relations with major powers.

Algeria and China: A Strong Alliance
Regarding cooperation with China, Tebboune highlighted that the relations between the two countries are “historical and strategic.” He recalled Algeria’s key role in China’s integration into the UN and that Beijing was the first to recognize Algeria’s war of liberation.

Economically, he emphasized the contributions of Chinese companies in developing Algerian infrastructure, particularly in housing construction and large-scale infrastructure projects. He also noted that Beijing remains a preferred partner for future investments, especially in renewable energy and new technologies.

A Message to France: Open to Dialogue, But with Conditions
Despite current tensions, Abdelmadjid Tebboune left the door open for a warming of relations with France, but on the condition that Paris adopts a more respectful attitude towards Algeria. He expressed surprise at the hostile statements from some French officials and denounced the rise of anti-Algerian rhetoric in France.

He also warned against any attempt to interfere in Algeria’s internal affairs, reminding that Algeria is now a major player on the African and Mediterranean scenes. In conclusion, he called for sincere and constructive dialogue between the two countries, while stressing the need to build relations based on mutual respect and balanced cooperation.

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