French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin arrived in Algiers on May 18, 2026, for a two-day visit aimed at thawing strained relations between France and Algeria. The trip focuses on judicial cooperation, including mutual legal assistance and extradition treaties, according to the French Ministry of Justice.
This visit follows a period of diplomatic tension after France reduced visa quotas for Algerian nationals in 2021 and Algeria recalled its ambassador in 2022. In recent months, both countries have taken steps to normalize ties, with French President Emmanuel Macron and Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune meeting in March 2026.
Darmanin is scheduled to meet with his Algerian counterpart, Abderrachid Tabi, and other officials. Discussions are expected to cover counterterrorism efforts and the fight against drug trafficking, as well as the status of dual nationals in legal proceedings.
The visit is seen as a positive signal for bilateral relations, though no major announcements have been made. Analysts note that judicial cooperation is a key area for rebuilding trust between the two nations.
