Algeria Calls French National Assembly's Denouncement of 1968 Migration Agreement a 'Franco-Française' Issue
Algeria views the French National Assembly's resolution denouncing the 1968 migration agreement as an internal French matter, stressing it does not currently affect Algerian-French relations directly.
- • French National Assembly passed a non-binding resolution denouncing the 1968 Franco-Algerian migration agreement.
- • Resolution supported mainly by the far-right Rassemblement National and right-wing parties.
- • Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf called the issue a 'franco-française' matter, not currently concerning Algeria.
- • The 1968 agreement facilitates visa-free stay and residence permits for Algerians in France.
- • Diplomatic tensions between France and Algeria have worsened after France recognized Morocco's autonomy plan for Western Sahara.
Key details
On October 30, 2025, the French National Assembly adopted a non-binding resolution denouncing the 1968 Franco-Algerian agreement governing migration and residence rights for Algerians in France. The resolution passed by a narrow margin with support primarily from the far-right Rassemblement National and other right-wing parties.
Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf expressed deep disappointment over this move, describing it as an "electoral competition" within France rather than a matter concerning Algeria directly. Attaf emphasized that the issue remains a "franco-française" matter that Algeria is not currently involved in. However, he noted that Algeria would take interest should the situation escalate to a government-to-government dispute, acknowledging the 1968 agreement as an international accord.
The 1968 agreement allows Algerians to remain in France beyond three months without a visa and facilitates access to ten-year residence permits, including for family reunification. Attaf underscored the importance of respecting this longstanding international arrangement.
This political development occurs amid long-standing diplomatic tensions between France and Algeria, exacerbated recently by France's recognition of Morocco's autonomy plan for Western Sahara in the summer of 2024. The move has further strained relations, adding complexity to the migration agreement controversy.
Attaf critiqued France’s focus on Algeria's history for electoral gains, stating, "It is saddening to see a great country like France make the history of another independent and sovereign country the subject of an electoral competition in France." He reiterated his respect for the French Assembly but affirmed that the denouncement is, for now, an internal French affair.
As of early November 2025, Algeria’s stance remains measured, seeking to avoid direct diplomatic confrontation despite the French resolution. The situation remains fluid, with potential for escalation if the issue proceeds beyond parliamentary debate to official bilateral negotiations.