Algeria has withdrawn its ambassador from France in reaction to a French proposal related to Western Sahara, reflecting escalating tensions between the two nations. This diplomatic action underscores a significant disagreement over the contentious issue of Western Sahara, a disputed territory in North Africa.
The conflict over Western Sahara involves a long-standing dispute between Morocco and the Polisario Front, which seeks independence for the region. Algeria has been a strong supporter of the Polisario Front and has criticized international proposals that it views as favoring Moroccan claims to the territory. The French plan, which likely involves diplomatic or policy measures regarding Western Sahara, appears to have been perceived by Algeria as undermining its stance or interests in the dispute.
This decision to recall the ambassador is a clear signal of Algeria’s discontent with France’s position and serves as a protest against what Algeria considers a detrimental approach to the Western Sahara issue. The withdrawal of the ambassador disrupts diplomatic relations and may impact bilateral cooperation and dialogue between the two countries.
The move highlights the broader geopolitical tensions and disagreements in the region, emphasizing the complexity and sensitivity of the Western Sahara conflict and its implications for international relations.
Algeria has recalled its ambassador from France in response to France’s recognition of Morocco’s controversial plan to grant limited autonomy to Western Sahara, while maintaining Moroccan sovereignty over the region.
In a letter to Morocco’s King Mohammed VI, French President Emmanuel Macron endorsed Morocco’s 2007 autonomy plan as the only viable solution to the long-standing Western Sahara dispute. Macron emphasized France’s consistent support for this plan.
Since Morocco claimed control over Western Sahara in 1975, it has administered most of the territory. Algeria, however, supports the Polisario Front, which seeks independence for Western Sahara and claims to represent the Saharawi people.
France’s shift in position, aligning with Morocco’s stance, marks a significant diplomatic victory for Rabat. Paris is joining other countries, such as Spain, the United States, and several African nations, that have recently supported Morocco’s position on the issue.
This change is a significant setback for the Polisario Front, which has criticized France’s support for Morocco as an effort to bolster its diminishing influence in Africa. Algeria has condemned France’s decision as an infringement on the Saharawi people’s right to self-determination.