On July 17, 2026, French far-right leader Jordan Bardella and conservative politician Bruno Retailleau criticized a statement by the French ambassador to Algeria, who reportedly mentioned a plan to increase the number of visas issued to Algerians to 250,000 per year. Bardella described the move as 'capitulation' and 'appeasement,' while Retailleau called it 'aplaventrisme' (a term meaning groveling).
The ambassador's remarks, made during a diplomatic event, have not been officially confirmed by the French Foreign Ministry. As of July 19, 2026, no formal policy change has been announced. The current visa issuance rate for Algerians is approximately 200,000 per year, according to previous French consular data.
The controversy comes amid ongoing tensions between France and Algeria over migration and diplomatic issues. Bardella and Retailleau argue that increasing visas would encourage illegal immigration and weaken France's negotiating position. However, supporters of the move say it could improve bilateral relations and reduce irregular migration by providing legal pathways.
No official response from the French government or the Algerian embassy has been reported as of this date. The story remains based on the ambassador's unverified comments.
