Two tourists have been shot dead by the Algerian coastguard while holidaying in Morocco. Reportedly, the tourists, who held dual French-Moroccan nationality, had unintentionally entered Algerian waters on jet skis.&nbsp;

As per BBC, they were part of a group of four who had set off on their journey from the Moroccan resort of Saidia.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a third member of the group has been apprehended by the coastguard, which regularly patrols the closed border between Algeria and Morocco.

<h2>Outrage and anger</h2>

News website Le360 has identified the two victims as Bilal Kissi and Abdelali Merchouer.

The French-Moroccan dual nationals came under fire after taking a wrong turn off the beach resort of Saidia on Morocco's northeast tip, and straying across the maritime border between the two countries, reported Le360, citing a witness.

As per the news website, the third man who was arrested by the Algerian coastguard is Smail Snabe, also a French-Moroccan national. He was made to appear before a prosecutor on Wednesday, reported Le360.

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The fatal shooting incident has caused outrage in Morocco, after a fisherman posted a distressing video capturing one of the victims' lifeless bodies floating at sea.

Among the group, Mohamed Kissi, as per AFP, was the sole survivor.&nbsp;

Recalling the incident, Mohamed said, "We got lost, but we kept going until we found ourselves in Algeria."&nbsp;

The man whose brother Bilal was killed in the shooting said that the group had also run out of fuel, they realised they were in Algeria "because a black Algerian dinghy came towards us" and those on board "fired at us".

"Thank God I wasn't hit, but they killed my brother and my friend," he added.

He refuted any suggestion that they were attempting to flee upon being detected by the coastguard and instead asserted that his brother had tried to talk to the authorities before the fatal shots were fired.

"They arrested my other friend. Five bullets hit my brother and my friend. My other friend was hit by a bullet."

Mohamed was picked up by the Moroccan navy and taken back to Saidia marina.

<h2>Morocco-Algeria tensions</h2>

Owing to Morocco's territorial claims over the disputed Western Sahara region, the relationship between these two nations has been strained for a long time.

The border separating Algeria and Morocco was sealed in 1994 due to security concerns, reports AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/court-rules-in-favour-of-pornhub-calls-texas-age-verification-porn-law-unconstitutional-631091">Court rules in favour of Pornhub, calls Texas age-verification porn law 'unconstitutional'</a>

In 2021, Algeria cut diplomatic ties with Morocco, accusing its neighbour of "hostile acts". The accusation was vehemently denied by Morocco.&nbsp;

In light of this tragic event, actor Abdelkarim Kissi, cousin of one of the victims, has called upon Moroccan authorities to pursue the case in international courts.&nbsp;

"They killed Bilal Kissi my little cousin," he wrote on social media, adding&nbsp;"His only fault was crossing the Algerian territorial waters, he was on vacation with his friends."

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Two tourists have been shot dead by the Algerian coastguard while holidaying in Morocco. Reportedly, the tourists, who held dual French-Moroccan nationality, had unintentionally entered Algerian waters on jet skis.

Two tourists have been shot dead by the Algerian coastguard while holidaying in Morocco. Reportedly, the tourists, who held dual French-Moroccan nationality, had unintentionally entered Algerian waters on jet skis. As per BBC, they were part of a group of four who had set off on their journey from the Moroccan resort of Saidia. Meanwhile, a third member of the group has been apprehended by the coastguard, which regularly patrols the closed border between Algeria and Morocco. Outrage and anger News website Le360 has identified the two victims as Bilal Kissi and Abdelali Merchouer. The French-Moroccan dual nationals came under fire after taking a wrong turn off the beach resort of Saidia on Morocco's northeast tip, and straying across the maritime border between the two countries, reported Le360, citing a witness. As per the news website, the third man who was arrested by the Algerian coastguard is Smail Snabe, also a French-Moroccan national. He was made to appear before a prosecutor on Wednesday, reported Le360. Also read | US: Pentagon's new website aims to answer all your queries about UFOs The fatal shooting incident has caused outrage in Morocco, after a fisherman posted a distressing video capturing one of the victims' lifeless bodies floating at sea. Among the group, Mohamed Kissi, as per AFP, was the sole survivor. Recalling the incident, Mohamed said, "We got lost, but we kept going until we found ourselves in Algeria." The man whose brother Bilal was killed in the shooting said that the group had also run out of fuel, they realised they were in Algeria "because a black Algerian dinghy came towards us" and those on board "fired at us". "Thank God I wasn't hit, but they killed my brother and my friend," he added. He refuted any suggestion that they were attempting to flee upon being detected by the coastguard and instead asserted that his brother had tried to talk to the authorities before the fatal shots were fired. "They arrested my other friend. Five bullets hit my brother and my friend. My other friend was hit by a bullet." Mohamed was picked up by the Moroccan navy and taken back to Saidia marina. Morocco-Algeria tensions Owing to Morocco's territorial claims over the disputed Western Sahara region, the relationship between these two nations has been strained for a long time. The border separating Algeria and Morocco was sealed in 1994 due to security concerns, reports AFP. Also read | Court rules in favour of Pornhub, calls Texas age-verification porn law 'unconstitutional' In 2021, Algeria cut diplomatic ties with Morocco, accusing its neighbour of "hostile acts". The accusation was vehemently denied by Morocco. In light of this tragic event, actor Abdelkarim Kissi, cousin of one of the victims, has called upon Moroccan authorities to pursue the case in international courts. "They killed Bilal Kissi my little cousin," he wrote on social media, adding "His only fault was crossing the Algerian territorial waters, he was on vacation with his friends." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Two jetskiing tourists fatally shot by Algerian Coastguard for accidentally crossing maritime border

Tuaregs in Algeria are hoping to draw tourists back to the region by putting their traditional dances, music poetry and camel races on display. The festival focuses on conserving traditions and encouraging its transmission to young ones in order to ensure its survival across generations.

Traditional music, dance to lure tourists

Over 40 people have died in Italy, Algeria and Greece while thousands have been evacuated as wildfires continue to sweep large swaths of the Mediterranean. Thirty-four people have died in Algeria alone, with the coastal province of Bejaia, east of Algiers accounting for 23 deaths.

Over 40 people have died in Italy, Algeria and Greece while thousands have been evacuated as wildfires continue to sweep large swaths of the Mediterranean. Thirty-four people have died in Algeria alone, with the coastal province of Bejaia, east of Algiers accounting for 23 deaths. Although Algerian authorities claimed that 80 per cent of the blazes had been put out since Sunday, a massive firefighting effort was still underway to bring the situation under complete control. Some 8,000 firefighting personnel, hundreds of fire engines and aircraft have been pushed into service. Italy hit by wildfires Meanwhile, Italy has been hit by contrasting weather conditions with deadly storms engulfing the north while scorching heat, tempering the land in Sicily as well as several southern regions. According to a BBC report, an elderly couple in their 70s was charred to death in a holiday home in Palermo, after fire came close to the boundary of the city's airport. An 88-year-old woman also died near the city. Also read | Around 2,500 tourists evacuated from Greek island of Corfu amid raging wildfires In Calabria, located east of Sicily, a man touching 100 was trapped by flames in his home while his daughter and son-in-law suffered burns while trying to save him. Fires have also raged in neighbouring Tunisia, where 300 people had to be evacuated from the coastal village of Melloula. Greece suffers Earlier this week, two pilots died in a tragic incident after a plane they were operating crashed on the island of Evia, near Athens, where a fire had been raging for several days. The aircraft, a Canadair CL-215 belonging to the Greek air force, was shown in footage dropping water over a fire before crashing into a hillside and catching fire. Watch | Gravitas: Record ocean temperatures observed in Florida | Mediterranean burns like blowtorch × The situation in Greece has been dire due to rampant wildfires, with the island of Rhodes being severely affected. The blazes have been raging since Wednesday and intensified due to hot and windy conditions. "For the next few weeks, we must be on constant alert. We are at war. We will rebuild what we lost, we will compensate those who were hurt," Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis told parliament, as quoted by Reuters. "The climate crisis is already here, it will manifest itself everywhere in the Mediterranean with greater disasters," he said. According to experts, the Mediterranean burning like a blowtorch may have never happened without human-induced climate change. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Mediterranean continues to burn as wildfires kill more than 40

A battling Tiger Woods clawed his way out of early trouble to stay in the Masters hunt, carding a second round two-over 74 on a Friday as the wind gave him more problems than the right leg that he nearly lost in a career-threatening car crash.

World number one Scottie Scheffler was among the few to tame the challenging conditions, posting a 67 to seize control of the leaderboard and charging five clear of the field on eight-under 136.

With winds blowing across Augusta National, golfers were in full survival mode and none more so than Woods who took bogeys on four of his five opening holes, threatening to derail the comeback that has captivated golf fans around the world.

But the 46-year-old's famous fight surfaced in time to put him one-over heading into Saturday's third round and nine back of front-running Scheffler.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tiger-woods-begins-highly-anticipated-return-with-opening-par-at-masters-469209">Tiger Woods begins highly-anticipated return with opening par at Masters</a>

"I got back in the ball game," said Woods. "I'm four shots back at second. That's the thing."

"But Scottie is running away with it right now."

"Tomorrow is going to be tough. It's going to be windy. It's going to be cool."

"It's going to be the Masters that I think the Masters Committee has been looking forward to for a number of years."

"We haven't had it like this. It's going to be exciting, and it's going to be fun for all of us."

With three wins in his last five PGA Tour starts, Scheffler showed why he is the hottest golfer on the planet taking a bogey on his first hole then going on to post the day's best round.

The 25-year-old American, even with a commanding five shot lead, cannot afford to get complacent being chased by trio of major winners including South Africa's Charl Schwartzel (69) the 2011 winner at Augusta National, Irishman Shane Lowry (68) the 2019 British Open winner, and defending Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama of Japan (69).

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ive-got-to-play-wimbledon-first-serena-williams-teases-comeback-after-a-year-on-the-sidelines-469199">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ive-got-to-play-wimbledon-first-serena-williams-teases-comeback-after-a-year-on-the-sidelines-469199">'I've got to play Wimbledon first': Serena Williams teases comeback after a year on the sidelines</a>

Also five back is South Korea's Im Sung-jae (74), the first round overnight leader.

"There's still 50 guys in the field, something like that, I'm sure, and I can't worry about what those guys are doing," said Scheffler. "I'm just going to go out and play my game and just keep doing what I'm doing.

"Still quite a long way to go."

"It's nice to build up a little bit of a lead, but I'm not really going to be thinking about it tonight or anything."

As spectacular a round as Scheffler had it still was not enough to pry the spotlight away from Woods.

Playing his first competitive event in nearly 14 months Woods set the golf world alight on Thursday when he posted a one-under 71 to crank up expectations.

But the 46-year-old looked headed for an early exit when he stumbled to bogeys on four of his five opening holes, including three straight from the third.

Three-over walking onto the sixth tee and sliding dangerously close to the projected four-over cut line, Woods regrouped with nervy pars on six and seven before finally collecting his first birdie of the day at the eighth.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-quashes-rumours-of-changing-length-of-matches-for-world-cup-qatar-2022-469127">FIFA quashes rumours of changing length of matches for World Cup Qatar 2022</a>

The five-times Masters champion got his back nine off to a much brighter start than his outward nine, picking up a birdie at the 10th, then gave it right back at the infamous Amen Corner with bogeys at 11 and 12.

But as he has he has done so many times before on the Augusta back nine Woods would not surrender, hitting back with birdies at 13 and 14 before closing with four consecutive pars.

"Tomorrow is going to be an important day with as cool and as tough as they're predicting," said Woods. "It's going to be quick, and I need to go out there and put myself there.

"If you're within five or six on that back nine going into Sunday, you've got a chance. So I just need to get there."

A battling Tiger Woods clawed his way out of early trouble to stay in the Masters hunt, carding a second round two-over 74 on a Friday as the wind gave him more problems than the right leg that he nearly lost in a career-threatening car crash.

A battling Tiger Woods clawed his way out of early trouble to stay in the Masters hunt, carding a second round two-over 74 on a Friday as the wind gave him more problems than the right leg that he nearly lost in a career-threatening car crash. World number one Scottie Scheffler was among the few to tame the challenging conditions, posting a 67 to seize control of the leaderboard and charging five clear of the field on eight-under 136. With winds blowing across Augusta National, golfers were in full survival mode and none more so than Woods who took bogeys on four of his five opening holes, threatening to derail the comeback that has captivated golf fans around the world. But the 46-year-old's famous fight surfaced in time to put him one-over heading into Saturday's third round and nine back of front-running Scheffler. ALSO READ: Tiger Woods begins highly-anticipated return with opening par at Masters "I got back in the ball game," said Woods. "I'm four shots back at second. That's the thing." "But Scottie is running away with it right now." "Tomorrow is going to be tough. It's going to be windy. It's going to be cool." "It's going to be the Masters that I think the Masters Committee has been looking forward to for a number of years." "We haven't had it like this. It's going to be exciting, and it's going to be fun for all of us." With three wins in his last five PGA Tour starts, Scheffler showed why he is the hottest golfer on the planet taking a bogey on his first hole then going on to post the day's best round. The 25-year-old American, even with a commanding five shot lead, cannot afford to get complacent being chased by trio of major winners including South Africa's Charl Schwartzel (69) the 2011 winner at Augusta National, Irishman Shane Lowry (68) the 2019 British Open winner, and defending Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama of Japan (69). ALSO READ: 'I've got to play Wimbledon first': Serena Williams teases comeback after a year on the sidelines Also five back is South Korea's Im Sung-jae (74), the first round overnight leader. "There's still 50 guys in the field, something like that, I'm sure, and I can't worry about what those guys are doing," said Scheffler. "I'm just going to go out and play my game and just keep doing what I'm doing. "Still quite a long way to go." "It's nice to build up a little bit of a lead, but I'm not really going to be thinking about it tonight or anything." As spectacular a round as Scheffler had it still was not enough to pry the spotlight away from Woods. Playing his first competitive event in nearly 14 months Woods set the golf world alight on Thursday when he posted a one-under 71 to crank up expectations. But the 46-year-old looked headed for an early exit when he stumbled to bogeys on four of his five opening holes, including three straight from the third. Three-over walking onto the sixth tee and sliding dangerously close to the projected four-over cut line, Woods regrouped with nervy pars on six and seven before finally collecting his first birdie of the day at the eighth. ALSO READ: FIFA quashes rumours of changing length of matches for World Cup Qatar 2022 The five-times Masters champion got his back nine off to a much brighter start than his outward nine, picking up a birdie at the 10th, then gave it right back at the infamous Amen Corner with bogeys at 11 and 12. But as he has he has done so many times before on the Augusta back nine Woods would not surrender, hitting back with birdies at 13 and 14 before closing with four consecutive pars. "Tomorrow is going to be an important day with as cool and as tough as they're predicting," said Woods. "It's going to be quick, and I need to go out there and put myself there. "If you're within five or six on that back nine going into Sunday, you've got a chance. So I just need to get there."

Algeria: Over 30 killed, thousands evacuated after wildfires spread across multiple provinces

At least 34 people have been killed, including 10 soldiers, as wildfires swept across regions of Algeria, the Interior Ministry said.

Wildfires kill 25 in Algeria as heatwave sweeps North Africa

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - UK: Bypoll for Johnson's seat scheduled for July 20, Russia seeks int'l investigation, Ramaphosa leads African Peace Mission, Zelensky praises US legislation on frozen Russian assets, Russia and Algeria Presidents meet.

UK: Bypoll for Johnson's seat scheduled for July 20 | Russia seeks int'l investigation

Africa in space? I am sure you have not heard that before, but it seems it is going to be a term that we will be getting used to in the near future. Did you know that South Africa, Angola, and Algeria, have a satellite in space, and now Kenya has entered the race with the blasting off, of its taifa-1, or one-nation rocket.

Africa's space venture | World Of Africa

Prominent journalist, Ihsane El Kadi, was sentenced to three years in prison by an Algerian court, on Sunday (April 2) for “foreign financing of his business”, reported AFP. The case has been criticised by rights groups for months now, as many have urged Algeria to lift “unacceptable” restrictions on his media outlets.&nbsp;

El Kadi who runs the Maghreb Emergent news website and Radio M is said to be one of the last independent media bosses in the North African country. This comes after he was handed a five-year sentence, however, two years of which are suspended. During the public hearing, the court in Algiers also sentenced the dissolution of the company Interface Medias and ordered the confiscation of its assets, reported AFP. &nbsp;

The company in question is said to be the publisher behind El Kadi’s two outlets was also fined $73,500 while El Kadi was also fined some thousands of dollars. Meanwhile, the journalist’s lawyer, Abdelghani Badi, told AFP that his team had boycotted the session on Sunday over the “absence of just trial conditions” and will appeal the sentence.&nbsp;

El Kadi was remanded in December following accusations of “receiving sums of money and privileges from people and organisations inside the country and abroad in exchange for carrying out activities that could harm state security”. Notably, the journalist was sentenced in June to six months in prison but remained free as no warrant was issued for his arrest at the time. &nbsp;

Earlier this year, Amnesty International’s Amna Guellali, said that the accusations against the journalist were “trumped-up state security related offences” and called his detention “unjustified”. She added that this is “yet another example of their ruthless campaign to silence voices of dissent through arbitrary detention and the closure of media outlets.” 
 
Additionally, 16 international media figures including Nobel Peace Prize winner and Russian journalist Dmitri Muratov called for El Kadi's release, reported AFP. Algeria ranks 134th out of 180 countries on Paris-based media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF)’s 2022 World Press Freedom Index. 
 
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Prominent journalist, Ihsane El Kadi, was sentenced to three years in prison by an Algerian court, on Sunday (April 2) for “foreign financing of his business”, reported AFP.

Prominent journalist, Ihsane El Kadi, was sentenced to three years in prison by an Algerian court, on Sunday (April 2) for “foreign financing of his business”, reported AFP. The case has been criticised by rights groups for months now, as many have urged Algeria to lift “unacceptable” restrictions on his media outlets. El Kadi who runs the Maghreb Emergent news website and Radio M is said to be one of the last independent media bosses in the North African country. This comes after he was handed a five-year sentence, however, two years of which are suspended. During the public hearing, the court in Algiers also sentenced the dissolution of the company Interface Medias and ordered the confiscation of its assets, reported AFP. The company in question is said to be the publisher behind El Kadi’s two outlets was also fined $73,500 while El Kadi was also fined some thousands of dollars. Meanwhile, the journalist’s lawyer, Abdelghani Badi, told AFP that his team had boycotted the session on Sunday over the “absence of just trial conditions” and will appeal the sentence. El Kadi was remanded in December following accusations of “receiving sums of money and privileges from people and organisations inside the country and abroad in exchange for carrying out activities that could harm state security”. Notably, the journalist was sentenced in June to six months in prison but remained free as no warrant was issued for his arrest at the time. Earlier this year, Amnesty International’s Amna Guellali, said that the accusations against the journalist were “trumped-up state security related offences” and called his detention “unjustified”. She added that this is “yet another example of their ruthless campaign to silence voices of dissent through arbitrary detention and the closure of media outlets.” Additionally, 16 international media figures including Nobel Peace Prize winner and Russian journalist Dmitri Muratov called for El Kadi's release, reported AFP. Algeria ranks 134th out of 180 countries on Paris-based media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF)’s 2022 World Press Freedom Index. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Algeria court sentences prominent journalist El Kadi to three years in prison

Wildfires are among the most common forms of natural disasters that can happen anytime or anywhere. They are often caused by human activity or by a natural phenomenon such as lightning but in recent times we have seen an uptick in wildfires due to warmer weather conditions. Now, Algeria sentences 49 people to death over fire mob lynching.

WION Climate Tracker: Algeria sentences 49 people to death over forest fire mob lynching

An Algerian court condemned 49 individuals to death on Thursday for the lynching of a man who had been wrongly accused of igniting catastrophic forest fires in August of last year.&nbsp; However, since the last executions in 1993, the nation of North Africa has kept a moratorium on carrying out death penalties.

Djamel Ben Ismail, 38, was killed by onlookers after turning himself in at a police station in the Tizi Ouzou area.&nbsp;

At the height of the countrywide fires that claimed the lives of at least 90 people, he had gone there after learning that he was accused of setting them on fire.

Later, it was discovered that Ben Ismail had travelled to the area as a volunteer to assist in putting out the flames.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scottish-leader-calls-next-election-a-de-facto-referendum-after-uk-top-court-snub-537068">After UK top court snub, Scottish leader calls next election a 'de facto referendum'</a>

According to the APS news agency, a court in Dar El Beida on Thursday sentenced 49 persons to execution for (Ben Ismail's) murder and mutilation of his body.

The court also sentenced 28 more offenders to prison sentences ranging from two years to ten years without the possibility of release, the APS reported.

Videos from the period showed a throng approaching a police van, assaulting a guy inside, pulling him outside, and lighting him on fire while several took photos.

Despite his son's death, the victim's father, Noureddine Ben Ismail, was applauded for encouraging peace and "brotherhood" among Algerians.

Authorities accused arsonists and "criminals" for the breakouts, albeit a scorching temperature was a contributing factor.

Additionally, they cited the Kabylie region's independence movement, which is located east of Algiers along the Mediterranean coast and is populated primarily by Berbers.

(With inputs from agencies)

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An Algerian court condemned 49 individuals to death on Thursday for the lynching of a man who had been wrongly accused of igniting catastrophic forest fires in August of last year.

An Algerian court condemned 49 individuals to death on Thursday for the lynching of a man who had been wrongly accused of igniting catastrophic forest fires in August of last year. However, since the last executions in 1993, the nation of North Africa has kept a moratorium on carrying out death penalties. Djamel Ben Ismail, 38, was killed by onlookers after turning himself in at a police station in the Tizi Ouzou area. At the height of the countrywide fires that claimed the lives of at least 90 people, he had gone there after learning that he was accused of setting them on fire. Later, it was discovered that Ben Ismail had travelled to the area as a volunteer to assist in putting out the flames. Also read | After UK top court snub, Scottish leader calls next election a 'de facto referendum' According to the APS news agency, a court in Dar El Beida on Thursday sentenced 49 persons to execution for (Ben Ismail's) murder and mutilation of his body. The court also sentenced 28 more offenders to prison sentences ranging from two years to ten years without the possibility of release, the APS reported. Videos from the period showed a throng approaching a police van, assaulting a guy inside, pulling him outside, and lighting him on fire while several took photos. Despite his son's death, the victim's father, Noureddine Ben Ismail, was applauded for encouraging peace and "brotherhood" among Algerians. Authorities accused arsonists and "criminals" for the breakouts, albeit a scorching temperature was a contributing factor. Additionally, they cited the Kabylie region's independence movement, which is located east of Algiers along the Mediterranean coast and is populated primarily by Berbers. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Algeria: 49 sentenced to death for setting afire man wrongly accused of igniting deadly forest fire

French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to Algeria looks like a bid to mend broken ties with the country which was once under the French colonial rule. The visit has not gone down well with the Algerians.

French President Macron booed in Algeria, faces public anger during a walkabout

Turkiye on Saturday expressed its displeasure over French President Emmanuel Macron's comments in Algeria. Macron told reporters in Algeria that Turkiye, China and Russia portrayed France as the enemy. Turkiye foreign ministry said that this comment was unacceptable.&nbsp;

"There is immense manipulation," Macron told reporters in Algeria.

"Many political Islam activists have an enemy: France. Many of the networks that are covertly pushed -- ... by Turkey... by Russia... by China -- have an enemy: France."

Turkish foreign ministry spokesman Tanju Bilgic slammed what he described as the French leader's "extremely unfortunate" comments.&nbsp;

"It is unacceptable that... Macron, who has difficulties in confronting his colonial past in Africa, especially Algeria, tries to get rid of his colonial past by accusing other countries, including our country," he said in a statement.&nbsp;

"We hope that France will reach the maturity to face its colonial past without blaming other countries, including our country, as soon as possible."

Macron's three-day visit to Algeria this week has aimed to turn the page on months of tensions with the North African country, which earlier this year marked six decades of independence following 132 years of French rule.&nbsp;

France's efforts for a thaw in relations also come&nbsp;at a point when the European powers&nbsp; are scrambling&nbsp;to replace Russian energy imports after the invasion of Ukraine -- including with supplies from Algeria, Africa's top gas exporter.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkiye on Saturday expressed its displeasure over French President Emmanuel Macron's comments in Algeria. Macron told reporters in Algeria that Turkiye, China and Russia portrayed France as the enemy.

Turkiye on Saturday expressed its displeasure over French President Emmanuel Macron's comments in Algeria. Macron told reporters in Algeria that Turkiye, China and Russia portrayed France as the enemy. Turkiye foreign ministry said that this comment was unacceptable. "There is immense manipulation," Macron told reporters in Algeria. "Many political Islam activists have an enemy: France. Many of the networks that are covertly pushed -- ... by Turkey... by Russia... by China -- have an enemy: France." Turkish foreign ministry spokesman Tanju Bilgic slammed what he described as the French leader's "extremely unfortunate" comments. "It is unacceptable that... Macron, who has difficulties in confronting his colonial past in Africa, especially Algeria, tries to get rid of his colonial past by accusing other countries, including our country," he said in a statement. "We hope that France will reach the maturity to face its colonial past without blaming other countries, including our country, as soon as possible." Macron's three-day visit to Algeria this week has aimed to turn the page on months of tensions with the North African country, which earlier this year marked six decades of independence following 132 years of French rule. France's efforts for a thaw in relations also come at a point when the European powers are scrambling to replace Russian energy imports after the invasion of Ukraine -- including with supplies from Algeria, Africa's top gas exporter. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Turkiye hits back at Macron for his 'unacceptable' comments

French President Emmanuel Macron and Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune on Saturday declared "new, irreversible dynamic of progress" between the two countries. The pact concluded Macron's Algeria visit that was aimed at alleviating months of tensions between the nations.

The three-day visit comes less than two months after Algeria marked six decades of independence following 132 years of French rule and a devastating eight-year war.

Macron's visit was also significant as it came amid European scramble to secure energy as Russia squeezes supply. Algeria is Africa's top gas exporter. With pact with France, Algeria is looking to expand its clout in North Africa and in the Sahel region.

In their joint declaration on Saturday, the two leaders said "France and Algeria have decided to open a new era ... laying the foundation for a renewed partnership expressed through a concrete and constructive approach, focused on future projects and youth."

At the signing ceremony, Algerian President Tebboune addressed Macron in French during which, he hailed Macron's visit as "excellent, successful visit... which &nbsp;allowed for a rapprochement which wouldn't have been possible without the personality of President Macron himself."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-to-limit-soaring-electricity-rates-next-year-cap-on-prices-to-continue-till-the-end-of-year-510752">France to 'limit' soaring electricity rates next year; cap on prices to continue till the end of year</a>

Ties between Paris and Algiers have seen repeated crises over the years.

They had been particularly cool since last year when Macron questioned Algeria's existence as a nation before the French occupation and accused the government of fomenting "hatred towards France".

Tebboune withdrew his country's ambassador in response and banned French military aircraft from its airspace.

Normal diplomatic relations have since resumed, along with overflights to French army bases in sub-Saharan Africa.

(With inputs from agencies)

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French President Emmanuel Macron and Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune on Saturday declared "new, irreversible dynamic of progress" between the two countries.

French President Emmanuel Macron and Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune on Saturday declared "new, irreversible dynamic of progress" between the two countries. The pact concluded Macron's Algeria visit that was aimed at alleviating months of tensions between the nations. The three-day visit comes less than two months after Algeria marked six decades of independence following 132 years of French rule and a devastating eight-year war. Macron's visit was also significant as it came amid European scramble to secure energy as Russia squeezes supply. Algeria is Africa's top gas exporter. With pact with France, Algeria is looking to expand its clout in North Africa and in the Sahel region. In their joint declaration on Saturday, the two leaders said "France and Algeria have decided to open a new era ... laying the foundation for a renewed partnership expressed through a concrete and constructive approach, focused on future projects and youth." At the signing ceremony, Algerian President Tebboune addressed Macron in French during which, he hailed Macron's visit as "excellent, successful visit... which allowed for a rapprochement which wouldn't have been possible without the personality of President Macron himself." Also Read | France to 'limit' soaring electricity rates next year; cap on prices to continue till the end of year Ties between Paris and Algiers have seen repeated crises over the years. They had been particularly cool since last year when Macron questioned Algeria's existence as a nation before the French occupation and accused the government of fomenting "hatred towards France". Tebboune withdrew his country's ambassador in response and banned French military aircraft from its airspace. Normal diplomatic relations have since resumed, along with overflights to French army bases in sub-Saharan Africa. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Amid energy crisis in Europe, France-Algeria declare 'new era' of co-operation

French President Emmanuel Macron will visit former colony Algeria next week in a bid to improve strained ties between Paris and Algiers, the French presidency said Saturday.

French-Algerian ties hit a low late last year after Macron reportedly questioned whether Algeria had existed as a nation before the French invasion and accused its "political-military system" of rewriting history and fomenting "hatred towards France".

Algeria withdrew its ambassador in response, but the two sides appear to have mended ties since.&nbsp;

"This trip will contribute to deepening the bilateral relationship looking to the future... to reinforce Franco-Algerian cooperation in the face of regional challenges and to continue the work of addressing the past," the presidency said in a statement after a call between Macron and his opposite number Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.

Macron is to visit Algeria from Thursday to Saturday next week.

The North African country won its independence from France following a gruelling eight-year war, which ended with the signing in March 1962 of the Evian Accords.

On July 5 of the same year, days after 99.72 per cent voted for independence in a referendum, Algeria finally broke free from colonial rule -- but memories of the 132-year occupation continue to haunt its ties with France.

Second trip

Algeria's war of independence left hundreds of thousands dead.

French historians say half a million civilians and combatants died -- 400,000 of them Algerian -- while the Algerian authorities insist 1.5 million were killed.

But six decades on, despite a string of gestures by Macron, France has ruled out any form of apology for the colonial period.

The French presidency announced Macron's visit as Algeria reels from devastating wildfires.

Fires in northeastern Algeria -- now largely extinguished -- have killed 38 people, and ravaged more than 10 percent of a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve.

But firefighters were still battling blazes in the far west on Saturday, the Algerian civil defence said.

Macron offered France's land and air firefighting services to help, the presidency said.

This week's trip will be the French president's second to Algeria as head of state, after a brief one in December 2017 at the start of his first term when Abdelaziz Bouteflika was still president.

This visit is set to be longer, and take him to both the capital Algiers and second city Oran.

Tebboune, Bouteflika's former premier, won presidential elections in 2019, after mass protests forced his ageing predecessor to resign.

Earlier this year, he congratulated Macron on his re-election and invited him to come to Algeria.

French President Emmanuel Macron will visit former colony Algeria next week in a bid to improve strained ties between Paris and Algiers, the French presidency said Saturday.

French President Emmanuel Macron will visit former colony Algeria next week in a bid to improve strained ties between Paris and Algiers, the French presidency said Saturday. French-Algerian ties hit a low late last year after Macron reportedly questioned whether Algeria had existed as a nation before the French invasion and accused its "political-military system" of rewriting history and fomenting "hatred towards France". Algeria withdrew its ambassador in response, but the two sides appear to have mended ties since. "This trip will contribute to deepening the bilateral relationship looking to the future... to reinforce Franco-Algerian cooperation in the face of regional challenges and to continue the work of addressing the past," the presidency said in a statement after a call between Macron and his opposite number Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. Macron is to visit Algeria from Thursday to Saturday next week. The North African country won its independence from France following a gruelling eight-year war, which ended with the signing in March 1962 of the Evian Accords. On July 5 of the same year, days after 99.72 per cent voted for independence in a referendum, Algeria finally broke free from colonial rule -- but memories of the 132-year occupation continue to haunt its ties with France. Second trip Algeria's war of independence left hundreds of thousands dead. French historians say half a million civilians and combatants died -- 400,000 of them Algerian -- while the Algerian authorities insist 1.5 million were killed. But six decades on, despite a string of gestures by Macron, France has ruled out any form of apology for the colonial period. The French presidency announced Macron's visit as Algeria reels from devastating wildfires. Fires in northeastern Algeria -- now largely extinguished -- have killed 38 people, and ravaged more than 10 percent of a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve. But firefighters were still battling blazes in the far west on Saturday, the Algerian civil defence said. Macron offered France's land and air firefighting services to help, the presidency said. This week's trip will be the French president's second to Algeria as head of state, after a brief one in December 2017 at the start of his first term when Abdelaziz Bouteflika was still president. This visit is set to be longer, and take him to both the capital Algiers and second city Oran. Tebboune, Bouteflika's former premier, won presidential elections in 2019, after mass protests forced his ageing predecessor to resign. Earlier this year, he congratulated Macron on his re-election and invited him to come to Algeria.

French president Macron to visit Algeria to mend strained ties

At least 38 people have been killed and dozens more injured in forest fires that have devastated northern Algeria.

Forest fires devastate Algeria: At least 38 dead, 200 injured

At least 38&nbsp;people have died in the forest fires raging in northern Algeria, leaving several more injured. Most victims died in El Tarf, near the Tunisian border, while a mother and daughter were killed in Setif, Kamel Beldjoud, the country's interior minister said. Reportedly, El Tarf is the worst-hit area in the country with 16 fires in progress.

Algerian media outlets have reported that nearly 200 more people have experienced burns or respiratory issues due to smoke from the fire.

Around 350 residents have been evacuated in various provinces. Northern Algeria witnesses wildfires every year, leaving several people dead. Last year, 90 people were killed.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dutch-reforestation-company-says-it-accidentally-caused-wildfire-in-spain-500013">Dutch reforestation company says it accidentally caused wildfire in Spain</a>

Total deaths this summer now stand&nbsp;at 30. Firefighters and helicopters are still trying to contain several blazes threatening residents in provinces in the east of the country.

Wildfires have wreaked havoc across the world this summer, with Europe being specially hit. On Wednesday, a wall of flame fed by high winds swept down towards four Spanish firefighters who were battling a wildfire in the eastern Valencia region to prevent flames from reaching a village in the municipality of Bejis.&nbsp;

Three firefighters were injured and several villages in the area were evacuated, local emergency services said on Twitter. The same fire had injured at least 10 passengers on a train on Tuesday who had tried to flee in panic after seeing the flames so close to the train.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-several-passengers-sustain-injuries-after-trying-to-flee-train-surrounded-by-wildfire-507739">Spain: Several passengers sustain injuries after trying to flee train surrounded by wildfire</a>

So far this year, wildfires have already burned more than 275,000 hectares in Spain and 87,000 in Portugal, with the latter representing around one per cent of Portuguese territory, the highest percentage in the European Union.

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least 38 people have died in the forest fires raging in northern Algeria, leaving several more injured. Most victims died in El Tarf, near the Tunisian border, while a mother and daughter were killed in Setif, Kamel Beldjoud, the country's interior minister said.

At least 38 people have died in the forest fires raging in northern Algeria, leaving several more injured. Most victims died in El Tarf, near the Tunisian border, while a mother and daughter were killed in Setif, Kamel Beldjoud, the country's interior minister said. Reportedly, El Tarf is the worst-hit area in the country with 16 fires in progress. Algerian media outlets have reported that nearly 200 more people have experienced burns or respiratory issues due to smoke from the fire. Around 350 residents have been evacuated in various provinces. Northern Algeria witnesses wildfires every year, leaving several people dead. Last year, 90 people were killed. Also Read | Dutch reforestation company says it accidentally caused wildfire in Spain Total deaths this summer now stand at 30. Firefighters and helicopters are still trying to contain several blazes threatening residents in provinces in the east of the country. Wildfires have wreaked havoc across the world this summer, with Europe being specially hit. On Wednesday, a wall of flame fed by high winds swept down towards four Spanish firefighters who were battling a wildfire in the eastern Valencia region to prevent flames from reaching a village in the municipality of Bejis. Three firefighters were injured and several villages in the area were evacuated, local emergency services said on Twitter. The same fire had injured at least 10 passengers on a train on Tuesday who had tried to flee in panic after seeing the flames so close to the train. Also Read | Spain: Several passengers sustain injuries after trying to flee train surrounded by wildfire So far this year, wildfires have already burned more than 275,000 hectares in Spain and 87,000 in Portugal, with the latter representing around one per cent of Portuguese territory, the highest percentage in the European Union. (With inputs from agencies)

At least 38 dead in northern Algeria wildfires, including a mother and daughter

Algerian President Abdulmadjid Tebboune on Monday (July 18) hailed his country's 'strategic partnership' with Italy during a visit by Italian PM Mario Draghi. Tebboune said Algeria will supply "very big volumes of gas" to Italy through a $4 billion deal. Draghi attended a joint economic summit between the two nations in Algiers.

An official Algerian source said last week that state energy company Sonatrach would increase gas supplies to Italy by a further 4 billion cubic meters (bcm) a year beyond the 21 bcm previously planned.

Algerian gas supplies have become more important for southern Europe in the wake of reduced exports from Russia post its invasion of Ukraine.

Draghi said in Algiers that Italy was a "privileged partner" of Algeria. He also said that both countries would also work to develop renewable energy sources.

Algerian Prime Minister Ayman Benabderrahmane, speaking at the summit conference, said Algeria was Italy's largest trading partner in Africa and the Middle East. Trade between the two countries in 2021 amounting to 8.5 billion US dollars.

Tighter global energy markets in the wake of Ukraine war have come as an opportunity to turn page on years of declining revenues that sharply reduced foreign currency reserves and led to unpopular fiscal tightening.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Algerian President Abdulmadjid Tebboune on Monday (July 18) hailed his country's 'strategic partnership' with Italy during a visit by Italian PM Mario Draghi. Tebboune said Algeria will supply "very big volumes of gas" to Italy through a $4 billion deal.

Algerian President Abdulmadjid Tebboune on Monday (July 18) hailed his country's 'strategic partnership' with Italy during a visit by Italian PM Mario Draghi. Tebboune said Algeria will supply "very big volumes of gas" to Italy through a $4 billion deal. Draghi attended a joint economic summit between the two nations in Algiers. An official Algerian source said last week that state energy company Sonatrach would increase gas supplies to Italy by a further 4 billion cubic meters (bcm) a year beyond the 21 bcm previously planned. Algerian gas supplies have become more important for southern Europe in the wake of reduced exports from Russia post its invasion of Ukraine. Draghi said in Algiers that Italy was a "privileged partner" of Algeria. He also said that both countries would also work to develop renewable energy sources. Algerian Prime Minister Ayman Benabderrahmane, speaking at the summit conference, said Algeria was Italy's largest trading partner in Africa and the Middle East. Trade between the two countries in 2021 amounting to 8.5 billion US dollars. Tighter global energy markets in the wake of Ukraine war have come as an opportunity to turn page on years of declining revenues that sharply reduced foreign currency reserves and led to unpopular fiscal tightening. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Algeria to ink USD 4 billion deal to supply gas to Italy

Algeria is celebrating 60 years of independence from France. The French ruled Algeria for 132 years. Millions of Algerians died in this period. Treasures worth billions were looted. Palki Sharma reports on this little-known story.

Gravitas: Algeria marks 60 years of independence from France

Algeria celebrates 60 years of its independence grom France on Tuesday (July 5) with a large military parade, but the tension between the two countries remains due to colonial era brutality. The gruelling eight-year war that brought freedom to the country was put to an end with the signing of the Evian Accords in March 1962. Authorities in Algiers on Friday closed a 16-kilometre (10 mile) stretch of a major artery so that the army could conduct final preparations for its parade, the first one in 33 years. Roads leading to the capital’s eastern suburbs have experienced severe backups as a result of the shutdown, AFP reported.

This procession will be presided over by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who will be accompanied by a number of international dignitaries, including Mahmud Abbas of Palestine, Kais Saeid of Tunisia, and Mohamed Bazoum of Niger.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-ditches-minister-accused-of-rape-in-cabinet-reshuffle-494380">Macron ditches minister accused of rape in cabinet reshuffle</a>

The government commissioned a logo consisting of a circle with 60 stars, including icons and tools, to commemorate "a glorious history and a new ear."

Slah Goudji, speaker of the upper house in an interview published by newspaper L’Expression on Monday (July 4), said, "There's no way we can forget or erase the human genocide, the cultural genocide, and the identity genocide of which colonial France remains guilty," reported by AFP.

Watch |&nbsp;French government announces new appointments, Macron seeks to balance power

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Algeria ultimately gained independence from colonial control on July 5, days after 99.72 per cent of its population supported it in a referendum. However, the 132-year occupation still has its impact on Algeria’s ties with France.

Thousands of people died during the battle for independence, but 60 years later, despite numerous overturns made by French President Emannuel Macron, France ruled out any kind of atonement for the colonial era.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-algerian-at-guantanamo-has-been-repatriated-467919">US says Algerian at Guantanamo has been repatriated</a>

The relationship between both countries reached a low point last year after Macron allegedly questioned Algeria if ever been as a country prior to the French invasion and accused its "political military establishment" of rewriting the history and inciting a hate towards France. In response to this, Algeria responded by removing its ambassador, but the relation between the two parties improved ever since then.

Both the presidents of the countries reaffirmed their intention to "deepen" their relationship over a phone call on June 18. The Algerian President also extended an invitation to French President Macron to visit Algiers.

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(With inputs from agencies)

Algeria celebrates 60 years of its independence grom France on Tuesday (July 5) with a large military parade, but the tension between the two countries remains due to colonial era brutality.

Algeria celebrates 60 years of its independence grom France on Tuesday (July 5) with a large military parade, but the tension between the two countries remains due to colonial era brutality. The gruelling eight-year war that brought freedom to the country was put to an end with the signing of the Evian Accords in March 1962. Authorities in Algiers on Friday closed a 16-kilometre (10 mile) stretch of a major artery so that the army could conduct final preparations for its parade, the first one in 33 years. Roads leading to the capital’s eastern suburbs have experienced severe backups as a result of the shutdown, AFP reported. This procession will be presided over by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who will be accompanied by a number of international dignitaries, including Mahmud Abbas of Palestine, Kais Saeid of Tunisia, and Mohamed Bazoum of Niger. Also read | Macron ditches minister accused of rape in cabinet reshuffle The government commissioned a logo consisting of a circle with 60 stars, including icons and tools, to commemorate "a glorious history and a new ear." Slah Goudji, speaker of the upper house in an interview published by newspaper L’Expression on Monday (July 4), said, "There's no way we can forget or erase the human genocide, the cultural genocide, and the identity genocide of which colonial France remains guilty," reported by AFP. Watch | French government announces new appointments, Macron seeks to balance power Algeria ultimately gained independence from colonial control on July 5, days after 99.72 per cent of its population supported it in a referendum. However, the 132-year occupation still has its impact on Algeria’s ties with France. Thousands of people died during the battle for independence, but 60 years later, despite numerous overturns made by French President Emannuel Macron, France ruled out any kind of atonement for the colonial era. Also read | US says Algerian at Guantanamo has been repatriated The relationship between both countries reached a low point last year after Macron allegedly questioned Algeria if ever been as a country prior to the French invasion and accused its "political military establishment" of rewriting the history and inciting a hate towards France. In response to this, Algeria responded by removing its ambassador, but the relation between the two parties improved ever since then. Both the presidents of the countries reaffirmed their intention to "deepen" their relationship over a phone call on June 18. The Algerian President also extended an invitation to French President Macron to visit Algiers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

Algeria celebrates 60 years of Independence from France, colonial era wounds remain

France's struggle with its Algerian past

The Pentagon announced Saturday it has repatriated an Algerian man detained for nearly 20 years at the&nbsp;Guantanamo&nbsp;Bay military prison, more than five years after his release was first arranged.

Sufiyan Barhoumi had initially been suspected of having been an instructor in an Al-Qaeda camp and of training Saudi fighters to make remotely detonated explosive devices.

But in 2008, the Pentagon dropped all charges.&nbsp;

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In 2016, a review board determined that the "law of war detention of Mr. Barhoumi was no longer necessary to protect against a continuing significant threat to the national security of the United States," the US Department of Defense said in a statement.

A Trump administration policy, however, had effectively halted most such transfers.

Thirty-seven detainees now remain in the detention center on the southern coast of Cuba, the Pentagon said.

Eighteen of them are "eligible for transfer" and seven are eligible to go before a review board, while 10 others -- including the presumed mastermind of the 2001 terror attacks, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed -- have been charged in the military commission system, and two others convicted.

The 2016 review found that while Barhoumi was involved in various extremist groups, he was not a member of al-Qaeda nor the Taliban.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/guantanamo-911-trial-suspended-amid-covid-19-scare-413888">Guantanamo 9/11 trial suspended amid COVID-19 scare</a>

Barhoumi was the sole Algerian among those eligible for transfer. The Pentagon said his release was subject to assurances from Algeria that he would be treated humanely and not pose a threat in the future.

The statement said the United States "appreciates the willingness of Algeria and other partners to support ongoing US efforts... focused on responsibly reducing the detainee population and ultimately closing the&nbsp;Guantanamo&nbsp;Bay facility."

The Joe Biden administration has been working to reduce the number of detainees at&nbsp;Guantanamo&nbsp;-- a sprawling facility opened amid the US "war on terror" -- and eventually close the facility.

Watch |&nbsp;20 years since the opening of Guantanamo Bay, the infamous US prison in Cuba

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The Pentagon announced Saturday it has repatriated an Algerian man detained for nearly 20 years at the Guantanamo Bay military prison, more than five years after his release was first arranged.

The Pentagon announced Saturday it has repatriated an Algerian man detained for nearly 20 years at the Guantanamo Bay military prison, more than five years after his release was first arranged. Sufiyan Barhoumi had initially been suspected of having been an instructor in an Al-Qaeda camp and of training Saudi fighters to make remotely detonated explosive devices. But in 2008, the Pentagon dropped all charges. Also read | US looks to reopen migrant detention camp at Guantánamo Bay to tackle surge in asylum seekers In 2016, a review board determined that the "law of war detention of Mr. Barhoumi was no longer necessary to protect against a continuing significant threat to the national security of the United States," the US Department of Defense said in a statement. A Trump administration policy, however, had effectively halted most such transfers. Thirty-seven detainees now remain in the detention center on the southern coast of Cuba, the Pentagon said. Eighteen of them are "eligible for transfer" and seven are eligible to go before a review board, while 10 others -- including the presumed mastermind of the 2001 terror attacks, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed -- have been charged in the military commission system, and two others convicted. The 2016 review found that while Barhoumi was involved in various extremist groups, he was not a member of al-Qaeda nor the Taliban. Also read | Guantanamo 9/11 trial suspended amid COVID-19 scare Barhoumi was the sole Algerian among those eligible for transfer. The Pentagon said his release was subject to assurances from Algeria that he would be treated humanely and not pose a threat in the future. The statement said the United States "appreciates the willingness of Algeria and other partners to support ongoing US efforts... focused on responsibly reducing the detainee population and ultimately closing the Guantanamo Bay facility." The Joe Biden administration has been working to reduce the number of detainees at Guantanamo -- a sprawling facility opened amid the US "war on terror" -- and eventually close the facility. Watch | 20 years since the opening of Guantanamo Bay, the infamous US prison in Cuba

US says Algerian at Guantanamo has been repatriated

Algerian President Abelmadjid Tebboune said the return of the North African country's ambassador to Paris was conditional on France showing it fully respects Algeria. Algerian President demanded France’s “total respect”, following a row over visas and critical comments from Paris about the North African country.

Relations between Algeria and France hit new low

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Tuesday he hoped that tensions with Algeria could ease after a row over visas and critical comments by Paris towards Algiers.

"My wish is for a calming down because I think it's better to talk and to make progress," Macron told the France Inter broadcaster, adding that his relations with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune were "truly cordial".

Algeria over the weekend recalled its ambassador from Paris and banned French military planes from its airspace, which France regularly uses to reach its forces battling jihadists in the Sahel region.

That came after a bitter row over visas, followed by media reports that Macron had told descendants of Algeria's war of independence that the North African country was ruled by a "political-military system" that had "totally re-written" its history.

Algeria said the reported remarks were an "interference" in its internal affairs.

Algiers was also angered last week after France said it would sharply reduce the number of visas it grants to citizens of Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia.

Paris said the decision had been made necessary by the former colonies' failure to do enough to allow illegal migrants in France to be returned.

The latest row came two weeks after Macron apologised on behalf of his country for abandoning Algerians who fought alongside France in their country's war of independence, which was waged on both sides with extreme brutality, including widespread torture.

During his presidency, Macron has taken steps to defuse lingering tensions with Algeria linked to their colonial history, and face up to France's methods to retain control of its north African colony, which won independence in 1962.

In 2018, he admitted that France had created a "system" that facilitated torture during the war and acknowledged that French mathematician Maurice Audin, a Communist pro-independence activist, was murdered in Algiers.

In July last year, he tasked French historian Benjamin Stora with assessing how France has dealt with its colonial legacy in Algeria.

"We've said things that are not easy to hear. I have not sugarcoated our own history," Macron told France Inter.

More than 60 years since France started its nuclear tests in Algeria, their legacy also continues to poison relations between the North African nation and its former colonial ruler. &nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Tuesday he hoped that tensions with Algeria could ease after a row over visas and critical comments by Paris towards Algiers.

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Tuesday he hoped that tensions with Algeria could ease after a row over visas and critical comments by Paris towards Algiers. "My wish is for a calming down because I think it's better to talk and to make progress," Macron told the France Inter broadcaster, adding that his relations with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune were "truly cordial". Algeria over the weekend recalled its ambassador from Paris and banned French military planes from its airspace, which France regularly uses to reach its forces battling jihadists in the Sahel region. That came after a bitter row over visas, followed by media reports that Macron had told descendants of Algeria's war of independence that the North African country was ruled by a "political-military system" that had "totally re-written" its history. Algeria said the reported remarks were an "interference" in its internal affairs. Algiers was also angered last week after France said it would sharply reduce the number of visas it grants to citizens of Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia. Paris said the decision had been made necessary by the former colonies' failure to do enough to allow illegal migrants in France to be returned. The latest row came two weeks after Macron apologised on behalf of his country for abandoning Algerians who fought alongside France in their country's war of independence, which was waged on both sides with extreme brutality, including widespread torture. During his presidency, Macron has taken steps to defuse lingering tensions with Algeria linked to their colonial history, and face up to France's methods to retain control of its north African colony, which won independence in 1962. In 2018, he admitted that France had created a "system" that facilitated torture during the war and acknowledged that French mathematician Maurice Audin, a Communist pro-independence activist, was murdered in Algiers. In July last year, he tasked French historian Benjamin Stora with assessing how France has dealt with its colonial legacy in Algeria. "We've said things that are not easy to hear. I have not sugarcoated our own history," Macron told France Inter. More than 60 years since France started its nuclear tests in Algeria, their legacy also continues to poison relations between the North African nation and its former colonial ruler.

Macron wants 'calming down' in Algeria relations

Algeria has recalled its ambassador to France for consultations after what it called "irresponsible" comments attributed to French President Emmanuel Macron, Algeria's presidency said on Saturday. Watch this report for more details.

Algeria recalls ambassador to France for consultations

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