Algeria has warned France about joint military exercises with Morocco, dubbed “Sharki 2025,” scheduled for September near its border. The Algerian government considers these drills provocative and detrimental to diplomatic relations. Concerns have been articulated regarding potential regional instability, prompting Algeria to demand clarification from France.
Algeria has formally cautioned France regarding impending joint military exercises with Morocco, scheduled to take place in September near its border. The Algerian government has characterized these planned drills as a “provocative” maneuver that could further aggravate the already strained relations between Algeria and France.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Algeria reported that Secretary-General Lounes Magramane engaged in discussions with the French Ambassador to Algeria, Stephane Romatet, regarding these military activities. Designated as “Sharki 2025,” the exercises will occur in the Rachidia region, adjacent to Algeria’s southwestern border.
In his discussion with Ambassador Romatet, Magramane articulated Algeria’s serious concerns, warning that these military drills threaten to escalate tensions and deepen the existing crisis between the nations. He emphasized that such actions are likely to inflict more damage on diplomatic relations and could lead to further, potentially dangerous repercussions.
Magramane also urged France to clarify its stance on the upcoming exercises, accentuating the risks posed to regional stability. He requested the ambassador communicate these concerns to the French government, highlighting the increasing diplomatic strains.
This warning from Algeria is indicative of escalating tensions compounded by various factors, including the 1968 migration agreement and recent comments from French officials about Algeria. Moreover, Algeria’s refusal to cooperate on certain consular issues has added to the friction between the countries.
The “Sharki 2025” exercise, which will be the second of its kind, is slated to commence on September 22, 2025, in Bechar close to Algeria’s southwestern border. Preliminary arrangements for the exercise were made during discussions at the French military inspection headquarters in Sale on May 22 and 23, 2024, aiming to streamline resource and equipment coordination.
The training operations are expected to unfold within designated sites, notably the Artillery Training Center (CTM) “Rahmat Allah” and “Afrido” in the Rachidia region, located less than 100 kilometers from Bechar.
In summary, Algeria has expressed significant concern to France over the planned military drills with Morocco, indicating that such actions could exacerbate existing diplomatic tensions. The discussion reflects deeper issues in bilateral relations and highlights Algeria’s call for clarity from France regarding these exercises. As the scheduled date for “Sharki 2025” approaches, the implications for regional stability remain a critical concern for Algeria.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
