Algeria strengthens green hydrogen ties with Europe amid shifting France relations

Relations between France and Algeria are facing significant shifts as major European nations strengthen energy ties with Algiers. While trade between France and Algeria has declined—contributing to the bankruptcy of approximately 300 French companies—other European powers are expanding their cooperation.

Algeria, Austria, Germany, Italy, and Tunisia recently signed a joint Declaration of Intent to bolster regional and Euro-Mediterranean cooperation in green hydrogen, specifically highlighting the strategic importance of the SoutH2 Corridor initiative.

In the context of the French presidential campaign, relations with Algeria have become a central political issue. Ségolène Royal, president of the France-Algeria Association, has defended Algeria against accusations of being an authoritarian regime, criticizing what she describes as a double standard in French political discourse. Meanwhile, political figures like Olivier Faure have called for a resumption of dialogue with the country.