ALGIERS - In another episode of the ongoing diplomatic row between Algiers and Paris, Algeria on Thursday firmly rejected France's recent visa restrictions targeting Algerian diplomats, vowing reciprocal measures.

Responding to a letter from French President Emmanuel Macron to his prime minister, Algeria's Foreign Ministry condemned in a statement what it called a "one-sided narrative" that absolves France of responsibility and ignores reality. The ministry said France had violated both its own laws and international commitments, particularly regarding deportation procedures and diplomatic protocols.

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Algeria noted that it had previously waived visa requirements for French diplomatic passport holders, but would now impose them in response to French restrictions.

Macron's letter, published by Le Figaro on Tuesday, ordered the suspension of a 2013 visa exemption agreement with Algeria and called for the application of a 2024 immigration law clause allowing France to deny short- and long-term visas to Algerian officials.

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Ties between France and Algeria have deteriorated since France in July 2024 recognised Morocco's sovereignty over the disputed territory of Western Sahara -- a move strongly opposed by Algiers. The rift deepened in April 2025, after French authorities indicted an Algerian consular official over the alleged abduction of a dissident, prompting Algeria to expel 12 French embassy employees in retaliation.