Algerian President rejects French aid claims in latest spat
Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has rejected claims of French aid, stating that “we need no one but God”, in their latest spat.
According to the Middle East Monitor on January 21st, President Tebboune “expressed surprise after reports circulated in French political and media circles alleged Algeria receives financial aid and assistance, with threats of their suspension”.
The President dismissed the claims, describing them as “ignorance about Algeria” before affirming that “Algeria needs no one but God Almighty and its people”.
He staunchly rejected the notion that France provides any financial assistance to his country.
The statements by French officials referred to development aid; with the French fair-right alleging it amount to $830 million.
However, these claims have been debunked by some French media outlets as well as the Algerian Press Service agency who also denied the existence of an French aid.
The agency clarified that financial relations are primarily characterized by French exports which reached $3.2 billion in 2023, and investments totaling $2.5 billion.
A figure, the Algerian Press Service noted, was modest compared to investments by regional neighbors like Turkey and Qatar, as well as the United States.
Reported by the Middle East Monitor, President Tebboune also stated, “we embrace and cherish our friends, but those who choose hostility, that is their concern”, referencing Paris.
Relations between Algeria and its former colonial power have been under great strain in recent months.
For example, in November 2024, the Algerian government instructed its banks to suspend any financial transactions related to French imports and exports.
In January, two Algerian Tiktok influencers were arrested in France over national security concerns.
Algeria claimed in January that France is waging a massive disinformation campaign against them, with this story becoming the latest addition to the rising hostilities between the two nations.
Middle East Monitor
