Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune launched a strong critique against France over the lingering effects of its colonial rule on his country.
This came during a speech delivered before both chambers of parliament addressing the nation in which he presented the achievements of his first presidential term from 2019-2024 and outlined his agenda for his second term, which began in September.
Tebboune said Algeria demands that France acknowledge its crimes committed during the colonial period from 1830-1962, emphasizing that the country seeks no material compensation.
He stressed that the number of Algerian martyrs throughout the 132 years of colonization is 5.6 million, and no amount of money can compensate for the loss of even one martyr during the resistance or armed struggle.
The remarks came amid a severe political crisis between Algeria and France, which led to the withdrawal of Algeria’s ambassador and the summoning of the French ambassador.
Algerian authorities attributed this escalation to hostile acts committed by French foreign intelligence on Algerian soil.
