The Crisis with France Negatively Affects the Development of Port Infrastructure in Algeria
A report published by the Spanish newspaper Informacion Logistica reveals that the political and diplomatic crisis between Algeria and France has significantly impacted their business relations, particularly in the field of port infrastructure, which has been notably affected by this crisis.
The report highlights that one of the consequences of the tensions between the two countries is the suspension of a project by the French company CMA CGM, which was in the process of negotiating a deal to operate the port of Oran, one of Algeria’s most important ports.
The source noted that the French company, through its branch CMA Terminals, had been negotiating for nearly a year to reach an agreement that would allow it to manage operations at the port of Oran. However, the recent diplomatic tensions between Algeria and France led to the suspension of negotiations that were close to being finalized.
The report further mentioned that the CEO of CMA CGM, Rodolphe Saadé, was planning an official visit to Algeria to move forward with the signing of the agreement. A meeting with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune was scheduled, which was expected to formally conclude the negotiations. However, this visit was postponed due to the deterioration of bilateral relations, which has resulted in a halt to investment projects in Algeria’s port sector. According to the report, this initiative could have contributed to the development of the country’s maritime infrastructure.
It is worth noting that the tension between Algeria and France reached an unprecedented level in recent weeks, with France recalling its ambassador from Algeria and expelling 12 employees of Algerian consulates on its territory, in response to the expulsion of 12 French diplomats from Algeria.
This escalation occurred after the arrest by French authorities of an Algerian diplomat for questioning in relation to the alleged involvement in the kidnapping of opposition activist Amir De Zaz. The situation unfolded at a time when both countries were believed to be on the verge of reconciliation following the visit of French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault to Algeria and his meeting with President Tebboune to resolve bilateral issues.
The tensions between Algeria and France began last summer when France officially expressed its support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara, which led Algeria to recall its ambassador to Paris for consultations and reduce its diplomatic representation. The disagreements deepened with the formation of a new French government that included several ministers known for their firm stance toward Algeria.
The bilateral relations between the two countries remain in a deep crisis, with no clear resolution in sight, particularly as Algeria continues to reject cooperation with France on sensitive issues such as immigration.
