Algeria: President Abdelmadjid Tebboune meets with Mr. Gérald Darmanin to discuss “the Obligation to leave French territory” (OQTF)

On Sunday, November 5, 2023, the President of the Republic, Abdelmadjid Tebboune, received a high-level visitor in Algiers, with the presence of the French Minister of the Interior, Gerald Darmanin. This meeting, held at the Presidential Palace, provided an opportunity to discuss crucial issues related to bilateral cooperation, particularly concerning the Obligation to leave French Territory  (OQTF).

The meeting brought together key figures, including the Director of the Presidential Cabinet, Nadir Larbaoui, the Minister of the Interior, Local Communities, and Territorial Development, Brahim Merad, as well as the Algerian Ambassador to Paris, Saïd Moussi.

This high-level meeting highlighted the importance of discussions between the two nations regarding OQTF.

Gérald Darmanin’s visit to Algiers, which began on November 4, 2023, is officially scheduled to last for two days.

Its primary objective is to strengthen cooperation between the Interior Ministries of both countries.

The focal point of the discussions is the OQTF, which has recently created tensions between France and Algeria.

The issue of OQTF is currently at an impasse, with both governments unable to find a mutually acceptable solution.

The situation has further complicated with the recent announcement of reduced visa quotas for Algerians, as well as Tunisians and Moroccans, which has raised additional concerns in the region.

OQTF are administrative measures taken in France to compel undocumented foreigners to leave French territory.

The complexity of these procedures and the growing number of Algerians affected have created a point of friction in bilateral relations.

Algerian authorities have expressed their concerns about the treatment of their citizens in France and have sought to find equitable solutions to address this issue.

Therefore, Gérald Darmanin’s visit to Algiers holds particular importance in resolving these sensitive matters.

The ongoing discussions aim to find practical solutions to manage OQTF and improve Franco-Algerian relations in this area.

A mutually acceptable resolution of this issue could help alleviate recent tensions and strengthen cooperation between the two countries.

It remains to be seen which direction these negotiations will take and what concrete measures will be implemented to address issues related to OQTF.

Gérald Darmanin’s visit to Algiers is a significant step in the quest for solutions to these complex and delicate matters that affect Algerian citizens in France.

Samir TOUATI