Algiers Summons French Diplomatic Envoy Over Persistent Obstruction of Algerian Diplomatic Pouches in Paris

Algiers Summons French Diplomatic Envoy Over Persistent Obstruction of Algerian Diplomatic Pouches in Paris

By Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers has once again summoned the Chargé d’Affaires of the French Embassy to the headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, denouncing what it described as “persistent and unacceptable obstructions” imposed by French authorities on the transfer and retrieval of Algeria’s diplomatic pouches in Paris.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Saturday, the Algerian Foreign Ministry condemned these actions as a “blatant violation of France’s international obligations under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations,” underscoring that the measures have now escalated beyond the Algerian Embassy to affect Algerian consular posts across France.

“These systematic restrictions, initially targeting our embassy in Paris, have now been extended to all Algerian consular missions in France, despite explicit assurances from the Quai d’Orsay that the situation would be reconsidered,” the communiqué stressed, highlighting Algeria’s growing frustration with what it considers a deliberate and unlawful impediment to diplomatic operations.

In response, and in strict application of the principle of reciprocity, Algiers has moved decisively by revoking “all privileged access passes to Algerian ports and airports previously granted to the French Embassy in Algiers.” The Ministry made it clear that this measure is a direct consequence of France’s failure to honor its commitments and to respect international diplomatic norms.

This latest diplomatic flare-up adds to a series of tensions between Algiers and Paris in recent months, signaling a hardening stance from Algeria as it seeks to assert its sovereignty and ensure compliance with internationally recognized diplomatic protections.