Algeria has decided to withdraw its envoys to France in response to Paris’ recent show of support for Morocco’s contested plan to establish limited autonomy in Western Sahara. The move by Algeria comes as tensions continue to escalate between the two countries over the long-standing conflict in the region.
France’s backing of Morocco’s plan, which has been met with criticism from Algeria, greatly angered officials in Algiers. Algeria’s Foreign Minister, Sabri Boukadoum, made the decision to recall the country’s ambassador to France, a move that is seen as a significant diplomatic snub.
The conflict in Western Sahara dates back to the 1970s when Morocco annexed the territory following the withdrawal of Spanish colonial forces. Algeria has long supported the Sahrawi independence movement, the Polisario Front, which seeks self-determination for the people of Western Sahara.
The ongoing dispute has strained relations between Algeria and Morocco for decades, with both countries accusing each other of supporting separatist movements within their respective territories.
Algeria’s decision to withdraw its envoys to France is likely to further strain relations between the two countries. The move also highlights the complexities and tensions surrounding the conflict in Western Sahara, which continues to be a major source of contention in the region.
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