France's justice minister is set to visit Algeria next week to enhance judicial cooperation and address the situation of a detained French journalist, his office announced on Saturday. This trip signals a warming of relations following a period of diplomatic tension.
Purpose of the Visit
The visit, scheduled for Monday, aims to "open a new chapter in judicial cooperation," according to Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin's office. However, the case of Christophe Gleizes, a journalist imprisoned in Algeria, will be a "major topic" during the discussions.
Background on Christophe Gleizes
Gleizes, 37, was arrested in May 2024 while reporting on a football club in Algeria's Kabylia region. He was sentenced to seven years in prison in June 2024 on charges of "glorifying terrorism." His detention has been a point of contention between the two countries.
Diplomatic Context
Relations between France and Algeria, its former colony, became strained after Paris officially backed Moroccan sovereignty over the disputed Western Sahara region in 2024. Algeria supports the pro-independence Polisario Front in that conflict. However, signs of a thaw emerged in February when French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez visited Algiers to restart security cooperation.
Recent Developments
Last week, French Deputy Defense Minister Alice Rufo met with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. Subsequently, France's ambassador to Algeria returned to his post after being recalled about a year ago at the height of the dispute. These moves indicate a gradual normalization of bilateral ties.
The Journalist's Situation
Gleizes received his first visit from a diplomat since his detention on Monday. His mother has expressed hope for "very positive developments on Christophe's return to France" by the end of the month. This follows his decision to drop an appeal with Algeria's top court, a move that may pave the way for a presidential pardon.
