Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s encounter with French President Emmanuel Macron at his residence in Bari, Italy, during the G7 summit stirred widespread controversy.
Social media activists noted that the Algerian official media omitted a moment when Tebboune appeared to “reprimand” his Foreign Minister, Ahmed Attaf, while greeting Macron.
Videos released by the Algerian Presidency depicted a cordial handshake between Macron and Tebboune, with scenes of the two leaders walking hand in hand and sharing expressions of apparent satisfaction.
However, the meeting concluded with little transparency, offering no insight into the discussions held.
Algerian opposition criticized the perceived haste in Tebboune’s meeting with Macron, arguing that protocol should have dictated a prior meeting with the Italian president, as Italy hosted the G7 summit.
The scenes were interpreted as indicative of the Algerian regime’s reliance on French support for a potential second term for Tebboune.
The unexpected warmth between the leaders contrasted with the ongoing controversy surrounding Tebboune’s postponed visit to Paris and unresolved issues regarding historical conflict.
While the Elysee Palace had previously announced Tebboune’s planned state visit to France, the visit has been repeatedly delayed, and no definitive date has been set.
Against this backdrop, Tebboune recently issued a decree calling for early presidential elections on September 7, 2024, further intensifying political dynamics in Algeria.
Several opposition figures, including Abdelali Hassani, Youssef Ouchich, and Louisa Hanoune, have announced their candidacies, with Tebboune expected to declare his intentions later.
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