France aims to issue 250,000 visas annually to Algerians, drawing criticism from right-wing parties
via Algérie3603 min read
France's Ambassador to Algeria, Stéphane Romatet, announced plans to increase the number of annual visas issued to Algerian nationals to 250,000. This initiative aims to restore Franco-Algerian relations to pre-crisis levels and rebuild cooperation in security, justice, and migratory issues, following a mandate from President Emmanuel Macron and confirmed by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. Romatet, who returned to his post two months ago after a nine-month absence, stated that the goal is to see the number of visas rise again to the level before the crisis, emphasizing the importance of maintaining human connections between the two countries. This announcement has sparked strong criticism from French right-wing and far-right parties. Jordan Bardella, president of the National Rally RN, described it as a "capitulation of Macronism to Algiers." Éric Ciotti of the UDR called it "a capitulation, a humiliation, a betrayal." Marine Le Pen, also from the RN, viewed it as a "provocation," stating that "the total opening of migratory floodgates by a Macronist government at the end of its rope is not an option for France." Bruno Retailleau, leader of The Republicans, expressed sadness at France's diplomacy being "forced to bow down" to the Algerian regime, with his associate François-Xavier Bellamy suggesting French diplomacy is "hostage to a president who seems determined to send proof of voluntary submission."
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Algérie360.
Algeria's Civil Protection reported 69 new wildfires as of Sunday at 1:00 PM, with 26 remaining active across 13 wilayas. Skikda is the most impacted, with nine ongoing fires. Béjaïa and Guelma each have three active fires, while Mila has two. Annaba, Souk Ahras, Tizi Ouzou, Bordj Bou Arreridj, El Tarf, Jijel, Sétif, Tiaret, and Relizane each report one active fire. In Annaba, fires are advancing in Séraïdi, threatening a village, with three AT-802 water bomber aircraft supporting firefighters. Béjaïa sees fires in Toudja and Aokas, where multiple villages are at risk, also requiring water bomber intervention. Skikda's firefighters are battling blazes in Aïn Kechra and Chéraïa, with three AT-802 planes deployed to protect homes. Ground operations continue in Sidi Mezghiche, Zitouna, and Aïn Cherchar. Guelma's Medjez Amar fire threatens homes, prompting Oum El Bouaghi wilaya to send nine reinforcement vehicles. In Souk Ahras, a fire in Aïn Zana is spreading along the Tunisian border, with a BE-200 Canadair assisting. Tizi Ouzou's Amsouhal fire continues to affect Ighil Aklimane village. High temperatures and dry vegetation are contributing to the spread of fires, complicating containment efforts. The Civil Protection urges vigilance and prompt reporting of any fire outbreaks. Separately, the Civil Protection also reported a tragic incident in Tamanrasset where a concrete wall collapse inside a house in Hai Essalam killed two children, aged 1 and 6. A 40-year-old woman sustaine
Ségolène Royal, president of the Franco-Algerian Friendship Association and a French political figure, has strongly criticized France's foreign policy towards Algeria. In a post on X, the former minister described Paris's approach as "catastrophic diplomacy," stating that France is progressively losing its economic and strategic positions to other European powers. Royal highlighted the dynamic economic relations between Algeria and several European capitals, citing major contracts in energy and public works with Italy, and the signing of around thirty agreements during an Algerian visit to Germany, covering strategic areas like green hydrogen and the automotive industry. She also mentioned the anticipated visit of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to Algiers for new bilateral projects. According to Royal, France is being "replaced" on the continent, having lost influence in the Sahel and Francophone Africa, and now seeing its businesses decline in Algeria. She noted a clear weakening of industrial, agricultural, construction, and port management partnerships for French entities, while competing European companies expand their activities. Royal deplored that internal political controversies in France regarding Algeria obscure "strategic realities." She called for overcoming these divisions to rebuild a balanced relationship with countries on the southern shore of the Mediterranean, advocating for diplomacy based on mutual respect and shared interests. Looking ahead to the 2
Must ReadThe Trump administration is exploring a proposal to require a $100,000 bond from foreign nationals applying for a Green Card through U.S. consulates. This sum would only be reimbursed after obtaining U.S. citizenship, a process that takes a minimum of five years. The measure is primarily expected to affect families of U.S. citizens, including spouses, parents, and siblings. The State Department confirmed it is examining this option, though without a specific timeline. The proposed bond aims to ensure financial self-sufficiency among immigrants, with the amount potentially varying. A State Department spokesperson, Tommy Pigott, stated that President Trump has made it clear that those wishing to immigrate to the U.S. must be financially autonomous. The administration plans to pilot the program in a limited number of countries before wider implementation. Sharvari Dalal-Dheini, Director of Government Relations at the American Immigration Lawyers Association, criticized the proposal, suggesting its true purpose is to exclude certain immigrants and create a "pay-to-play" system where only the wealthy can afford to immigrate.