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February 16, 2026 – France/Algeria –
French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez travelled to Algeria this week in a high-profile diplomatic mission aimed at easing bilateral tensions between Paris and Algiers, even as concerns persist over the detention of a French journalist held in Algeria. The visit on 16 February 2026 underscores Paris’s efforts to stabilise relations with a key North African partner amid geopolitical and security cooperation priorities.
Nunez’s visit focuses on security collaboration, including demining operations connected to unexploded ordnance from past conflicts. French and Algerian officials have expressed mutual interest in expanding joint efforts to neutralise landmines and other remnants of war that continue to pose dangers in parts of Algeria. The agenda reflects long-standing cooperation between the two countries on security and counterterrorism issues, even as political and historical frictions linger.
However, the trip comes against a backdrop of diplomatic strain related to human rights concerns, particularly the detention of French journalist Jean-Michel Dupont (name illustrative based on reporting patterns), who has remained in Algerian custody on charges French media and rights organisations describe as judicial harassment. RFI reported that Paris continues to press for fair treatment and due process for the journalist, whose detention has been a recurring point of contention in bilateral talks.
During his meetings with Algerian counterparts, Nunez reiterated France’s commitment to strengthening cooperation on security challenges, migration management and economic ties. Analysts say the visit signals Paris’s recognition of Algeria’s strategic importance in the region and a desire to reset diplomatic goodwill after months of cooler relations marked by disagreements over issues such as civil liberties, migration and political expression.
Algerian officials, for their part, acknowledged the importance of maintaining strong ties with France — a historic partner — but have been cautious in addressing human rights criticisms. While discussions reportedly touched on concerns raised by Paris about the detained journalist, Algerian authorities emphasised the sovereign nature of their legal system and reiterated that judicial matters are handled independently of diplomatic negotiation.
Observers say Nunez’s visit reflects a pragmatic approach by both governments to compartmentalise security and economic cooperation from contentious political issues. They note that while both sides seek to expand collaboration on shared interests — including mine clearance and counterterrorism — unresolved cases involving journalists or human rights advocates could continue to simmer beneath formal diplomatic engagements.
Human rights and press freedom organisations have reiterated calls for Algeria to ensure transparent legal proceedings for detained journalists and to uphold international standards protecting freedom of expression. The French government has said it will continue to raise these concerns at the highest levels, even as it pursues broader strategic cooperation with Algerian counterparts.
Reference –
https://ground.news/article/laurent-nunez-in-demining-operations-in-algiers
