Algeria Denies Imposing Trade Sanctions on France Amid Political Tensions
- Algeria's government issued a denial regarding the existence of trade sanctions against France due to diplomatic tensions.
- Reports of potential trade reprisals were sparked by France's diplomatic change towards Morocco regarding Western Sahara.
- The situation reflects the fragile nature of Algerian-French relations, influenced by political developments.
On November 7, 2024, the Algerian government categorically denied reports of trade sanctions against France following France's diplomatic pivot regarding Western Sahara. This came after former French ambassador Xavier Driencourt claimed that Algeria was planning reprisals against bilateral trade in response to President Emmanuel Macron's recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara. Algeria's denial indicates governmental anxiety over potential economic repercussions. There was a recent meeting where vague instructions were reportedly given to halt trade deals with France, but the Professional Association of Banks and Financial Establishments acted without legal authority. This situation reflects the complexities within Algerian-French relations, especially after Algeria previously warned banks to stop transactions with Spain out of political considerations, which had unfavorable economic consequences for local businesses.