Spain accelerates return of its companies to Algerian market after diplomatic détente
via Algérie3603 min read
Algerian-Spanish economic relations are experiencing a notable resurgence following a diplomatic warming between Algiers and Madrid. This dynamic follows a period of tension that began in 2022 when Spain, under Pedro Sánchez, altered its stance on the Sahrawi issue, leading to Algeria recalling its ambassador and suspending the 2002 treaty of friendship and good neighborliness. The normalization phase has allowed for the gradual resumption of institutional and economic contacts, paving the way for a revival of trade. Recent signals include the resumption of high-level diplomatic contacts, reactivation of the bilateral cooperation framework, progressive return of Spanish economic operators, and reopening of discussions on investments and trade. Spain's Minister of State for Trade, Amparo López, has encouraged Spanish companies to strengthen their presence in Algeria, describing it as a "strategic opportunity." Speaking at an event in Valencia, she emphasized that Spanish companies should take advantage of a "very favorable context" following the normalization of diplomatic relations. López also stated that the objective of this revival is to diversify exports and secure energy supplies amidst international uncertainties. She highlighted Algeria as a strategic partner and an important supplier, particularly concerning energy security in a tense international environment. López noted positive developments in economic relations, especially after the visit of Spanish Minister of F
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 10 countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Algérie360.
Must ReadA judicial and administrative investigation has been launched in Marsat El Hadjadj, Oran, following the demolition of the "Sidi Abdelkader" mausoleum, located within a children's cemetery. The incident, documented live on social media, has raised concerns about heritage protection and the influence of extremist groups. The widespread video of the demolition and accompanying strong comments led to a national outcry. A joint commission comprising the National Gendarmerie, the Directorate of Culture and Arts, and the Directorate of Religious Affairs of the wilaya of Oran visited the site. Investigators, accompanied by cultural experts, assessed the damage in the "Hassasna" area. According to El Khabar, the investigation extends beyond material damage to determine administrative responsibilities. The president of the Communal Popular Assembly of Marsat El Hadjadj and several local officials have been questioned to ascertain if the demolition was an official municipal decision or an isolated act without legal approval. Authorities and civil society are particularly concerned about the ideological context, as radical and takfirist groups, who label mausoleum visitors as "Quburiyyin" tomb worshippers, widely shared the demolition video and advocate for the destruction of such structures, which they deem contrary to Islamic precepts. The Directorate of Culture will determine the mausoleum's protected heritage value, while the Directorate of Religious Affairs works to ease community t
Must ReadFranco-Algerian writer Kamel Daoud was sentenced in absentia on April 21 by the Falaoucen court in Oran to three years in prison and a fine of 5 million dinars. This decision follows a complaint filed by Saâda Arbane, who accused Daoud of using her personal story as a victim of terrorism in his novel "Houris." Arbane alleges that the author exploited her medical records, which his wife, a psychiatrist, accessed through her work in neurological services in Oran. The complaint also targets Daoud's wife for disclosing professional secrets concerning one of her patients. Arbane claims the novel incorporates key elements of her life, including the extermination of her family, causing her deep trauma and violating her dignity and privacy. Kamel Daoud responded to the judgment on his personal page, stating that the decision falls under the application of laws related to national reconciliation and national tragedy. He views the conviction as an attempt to silence his work and prevent him from addressing sensitive topics related to Algeria's history. The case sparked controversy last year, particularly after Daoud received the Goncourt Prize in France for the novel. Arbane highlighted the striking similarity between her childhood experiences, marked by her family's extermination, and the plot of the book, which is central to the accusation against the author.
Must ReadThe issue of Algerians deported to New Caledonia by colonial France has resurfaced, with their descendants seeking stronger ties to their ancestral land. This renewed attention follows a report by Algerian influencer Mehdi Chettah and recent parliamentary initiatives. Abdelouahab Yagoubi, a diaspora Member of Parliament, submitted a written question to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in March, highlighting the forced deportation of over 2,000 Algerians to New Caledonia, where more than 15,000 of their descendants now reside. Yagoubi criticized the lack of local consular representation, forcing these individuals to rely on services in Paris, located 16,700 kilometers away. He advocated for the recognition of their Algerian identity and requested a concrete plan to address the consular presence. In response, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirmed the Algerian authorities' commitment to the descendants of those deported by French occupation to New Caledonia and other regions. The ministry outlined a three-pronged strategy focusing on human, historical, and institutional aspects, including integrating descendants into national commemorations and inviting them to major events like the Intra-African Trade Fair in September 2025. Regarding consular services, Ahmed Attaf announced that descendants can now access services through the Algerian embassy in Australia, eliminating the need to travel to Paris. The article details the historical context of these deportations, stemming from
Air Algérie has announced its program for transporting Algerian pilgrims for the Hajj 1447/2026 season, with the first departure scheduled for April 29, 2026. The national airline has mobilized logistical and human resources to support pilgrims, reflecting the Algerian authorities' commitment to ensuring a smooth Hajj. Flights to the Holy Sites will commence on April 29, 2026, with return flights starting June 1. Twelve airports across Algeria will be utilized. In collaboration with Saudia Airlines and Flynas, Air Algérie plans to operate 176 flights, transporting approximately 41,300 Algerian pilgrims, with Air Algérie alone managing 88 flights. The airline, in cooperation with the National Office for Hajj and Umrah ONPO, has finalized all logistical and organizational arrangements, adhering to international standards. Air Algérie has also established a toll-free number +966 800 8500 585, available 24/7, to provide pilgrims with necessary information. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has implemented a zero-tolerance policy for the Hajj season, imposing fines of 20,000 riyals approximately 5,300 dollars for individuals attempting to perform Hajj without an official permit between April 18 and May 31. Those who transport or house undocumented pilgrims face fines up to 100,000 riyals per offender, and foreign violators risk immediate expulsion and a 10-year entry ban.