France's ambassador to Algeria, Stéphane Romatet, returned to Algiers on May 8, 2026, after being recalled in November 2025 for consultations. The move marks a significant thaw in bilateral relations, which had soured over France's decision to recognize Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara.
According to a joint statement from the French and Algerian foreign ministries, the return follows a series of high-level talks aimed at restoring trust. The statement emphasized a mutual desire to rebuild cooperation on security, economic, and cultural issues.
Algeria had recalled its own ambassador from Paris in July 2025, but he returned in January 2026. The diplomatic rift began after France shifted its long-standing position on Western Sahara in July 2025, aligning more closely with Morocco's autonomy plan.
Analysts view the ambassador's return as a positive step, though underlying tensions remain. The two countries share a complex history and maintain deep economic ties, with France being a major investor in Algeria's energy sector.
