Published: 09:29, May 15, 2025
France says to expel Algerian diplomats in reciprocal move
By Xinhua
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot speaks to journalists during UA-EU foreign Minister's meeting in Lviv, Ukraine, on May 9, 2025. (PHOTO / AP)

PARIS - French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot announced on Wednesday that France is set to expel additional Algerian diplomats in a reciprocal move.

Speaking on BFMTV, Barrot said, "Our response is immediate, it is firm."

Algeria summoned the French charge d'affaires in Algiers on Sunday and demanded the immediate expulsion of several French embassy employees over "serious breaches" of diplomatic protocol, Algerian media reported.

ALSO READ: Algeria expels 12 French diplomats in escalation with France

The move follows what Algerian authorities called "serious and repeated violations" by the French side, including the appointment of diplomatic and consular staff without prior notification or formal accreditation, in violation of international norms and bilateral agreements.

READ MORE: France to recall ambassador, expel 12 Algerian diplomats in reciprocal move

The diplomatic rift between Algiers and Paris has deepened in recent months due to disagreements over immigration issues and policies, and historical grievances, among others.

In April, Algeria ordered the removal of 12 French embassy employees following the detention of an Algerian consular officer in France -- a move that prompted reciprocal action from Paris.