The Algerian Economic Renewal Council (CREA) has canceled its planned visit to France, including a scheduled meeting with the French employers’ association, MEDEF. This decision follows recent actions by French authorities that CREA views as obstructive to bilateral economic relations.
According to CREA’s statement, the cancellation was prompted by French authorities pressuring a French maritime transport company to abandon its planned trip to Algeria, where it intended to finalize an investment project. CREA described this intervention as “orchestrated” by French officials, contrasting sharply with official statements from Paris advocating for the normalization of Algerian-French relations.
The council expressed concern over the inconsistency in France’s approach, highlighting a contradiction between Paris’s calls for de-escalation and actions that hinder private investment initiatives. CREA emphasized that, given the negative signals directed at Algerian economic actors, proceeding with the scheduled visit to France was deemed “pointless.”
This development comes amid heightened tensions between Algeria and France. Earlier in April, Algeria expelled 12 French diplomats in response to the indictment of an Algerian consular official in France, accused of involvement in the kidnapping of an opposition figure in Paris. France reciprocated by expelling 12 Algerian diplomats, further straining diplomatic relations.
CREA reaffirmed its commitment to international partnerships based on reciprocity, transparency, and mutual respect. The council remains dedicated to defending the interests of the Algerian economy and its stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of constructive dialogue and cooperation with international partners who demonstrate genuine willingness to collaborate.
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