Algeria denounces planned French investments in Western Sahara
Tensions between Morocco and Algeria look set to reach fever pitch over a recent investment decision made by France regarding Western Sahara.
Algerian state media have criticized France’s intentions to fund development projects in Western Sahara, along with Morocco, deeming it a provocative step. As reported by Reuters on April 7th, the information ministry of Western Sahara, run by the Algeria-backed Polisario movement, also stated that the move by Paris constitutes explicit support for Morocco’s claims over the disputed region.
READ: France eyes investment in Western Sahara
The statement comes amidst the recent visit of France’s Foreign Trade Minister, Franck Riester to Rabat. As reported on April 4th, France has signaled its intention to invest in development projects in Western Sahara, along with the Moroccan government.
Morocco has maintained its claim over Western Sahara ever since it took over most of the region from colonial Spain in 1975. However, the Sahrawi Polisario movement, funded and supported by Algeria, demands a sovereign state.
Riester, as part of France’s broader diplomatic plan to thaw relations with Morocco after disputes in recent years, confirmed that this renewal of bilateral relations will involve private-sector collaboration.
READ: Morocco and US expected to discuss Western Sahara
According to reports, the Foreign Trade Minister further suggested that the private sector financing arm of the French Development Agency (AFD), Proparco, will also be involved in the funding of future projects in Western Sahara. Such development initiatives are expected to include a power line connecting Dakhla to Casablanca, as well as investments in tourism and renewable energy.
The United States State Department has also announced investments of more than $500,000 in financial growth projects in the region. This foreign policy shift by France will certainly continue to upset the geopolitical dynamics of the region, risking its future bilateral relationship with Algeria.
Reuters
