Algerian party condemns growing French far-right, warns of fallout
Algeria’s National Construction Movement warned that France risks losing its strategic interests in Algeria due to the recklessness of the far-right.
-
Demonstrators take the street of Algiers, Friday, April 2, 2021 (AP)
Algeria’s National Construction Movement warned on Friday that France was at risk of losing its strategic interests in Algeria due to the recklessness of the former colonizer's far-right.
In a statement signed by its president, Abdelkader Bengrina, the movement firmly rejected the recent French campaign targeting Algeria, describing it as an "unprecedented and rabid attack that reveals a renewed colonial mentality."
The movement asserted that the campaign aims to "undermine Algeria’s stability and hinder its developmental and sovereign progress, in an attempt to revive outdated policies of dominance and blackmail."
It reaffirmed its full support for Algeria’s diplomatic stance in confronting "unilateral actions by France that violate the principle of equal relations in international affairs."
Additionally, the movement cautioned that the rise of the far-right in France threatens the future of bilateral relations, emphasizing that "the biggest loser will be the French people and their economic and strategic interests due to reckless policies driven by colonialist lobbies still nostalgic for a bygone era."
It called on various national forces in Algeria to "close ranks and strengthen the internal front, considering this a sacred national duty, especially when it comes to Algeria’s sovereignty and vital interests."
The movement urged Algerian elites to "confront the French media and political campaign and to voice clear opposition to all actions that undermine Algeria’s sovereignty and the rights of its diaspora in France."
Furthermore, the movement reiterated Algeria’s unwavering support for just causes worldwide, particularly the Palestinian cause and the right of the Sahrawi people to self-determination, in line with Algeria’s historic liberationist stance.
The statement concluded with an appeal to moderate figures in France to "take responsibility in curbing the far-right’s growing influence," warning that "continuing this hostile approach directly threatens the shared interests of both Algerian and French peoples and places the future of bilateral relations at a crossroads."
Algeria does not need French aid
Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune affirmed that Algeria is on track to become an emerging country within two years, emphasizing that it has no need for French development aid, which he claimed primarily serves France's interests.
In an interview with the French newspaper L'Opinion in early February, Tebboune stated that Algeria is expected to become an emerging country within two years, reaching the economic level of southern European nations with a gross domestic product exceeding $400 billion.
He added that by early 2027 at the latest, Algeria is expected to have completed its program to deliver 3.5 million housing units—two million of which have already been distributed—while also resolving water shortages and reducing the import of raw materials for factories.
Tebboune emphasized that Algeria aims to maximize local manufacturing and become a leading exporter of phosphate and its derivatives. He added that the country is also focusing on developing solar energy and producing green hydrogen, a new resource that will enhance its industrial appeal and strengthen its capacity to supply energy to Europe.
He pointed out that "Algeria is also working to enhance its food security and mobilize more water resources."