Faced with the low rate of execution of obligations to leave French territory (OQTF) concerning Algerian nationals, France is exploring new avenues to improve this situation. Xavier Driencourt, former French ambassador to Algiers, proposes several measures intended to overcome the diplomatic blockages between Paris and Algiers, in a context of persistent tensions since the last bilateral crisis.
Faced with the poor execution of obligations to leave French territory (OQTF), particularly for Algerian nationals with an execution rate of around 7%, Xavier Driencourt, former French ambassador to Algeria, advanced, in a column at Figaroseven avenues to remedy this situation, particularly tense since the latest diplomatic frictions between Paris and Algiers.
First of allMr. Driencourt suggests that the French government send a clear signal to Algeria by imposing a freeze on diplomatic visas for a period of three months. It is based on the example of 2021-2022, when French foreign ministers suspended the granting of visas, in particular to holders of diplomatic passports, in order to put pressure on Algiers to obtain more consular passes necessary for the expulsion of Algerian nationals in an irregular situation.
SecondlyMr. Driencourt calls for a review of the Franco-Algerian agreements of 1968, which grant Algerians special advantages in terms of stay and installation in France. These agreements, perceived as old-fashioned and unsuitable for the current situation, allow Algerian nationals to access rights that other nationalities do not benefit from. Mr. Driencourt recommends repealing them in order to put an end to this situation deemed unequal.
Thirdlyhe believes that France has means of pressure on Algeria that it does not use sufficiently, particularly in terms of migration relations. He recommends not giving in to Algiers’ blockages and toughening the negotiations by using graduated measures, such as the reduction of certain bilateral measures.
Fourthhe deplores the lack of reciprocity in financial transactions between the two countries. Algerians with French visas can transfer funds freely, while French people in Algeria are subject to significant restrictions. Mr. Driencourt suggests re-examining this issue, considering the implementation of similar limitations for Algerians in France.
Fifthhe criticizes the opening of additional Algerian consulates in France, notably in Rouen and Melun, without compensation required from Algiers. He advocates a review of this consular cooperation, conditioning the continuation of these openings on an Algerian commitment to the creation of new French consulates in Algeria.
SixthMr. Driencourt proposes to review France’s strategy with regard to the Paris mosque, whose rector is directly appointed by Algeria. He suggests that this institution, under foreign influence, plays too important a role in bilateral negotiations between Paris and Algiers, and that France should put an end to this form of interference.
Finallythe former diplomat pleads for a profound change in Franco-Algerian relations, advocating a firmer and clearer policy from France to put an end to the blockages which persist, despite repeated attempts to find solutions. For Mr. Driencourt, only a determined and rigorous approach will make it possible to significantly improve the execution of the OQTFs.
Related News :