France's ambassador calling for "dialogue" and "mutual respect" with Algeria reads like a masterclass in diplomatic amnesia—conveniently forgetting that Paris has spent decades treating its former colony as a geopolitical afterthought while Algeria built genuine partnerships across Africa and the Global South. This isn't about two equals finding common ground; it's about a former colonial power finally recognizing that Algeria's strategic autonomy and continental influence can no longer be taken for granted. The real question isn't whether France will respect Algeria, but whether Algeria still sees value in entertaining these overtures when it has China, Turkey, and fellow African nations offering partnerships without the colonial baggage.

SUMMARY BY STRATA · ORIGINAL REPORTING BY JEUNE AFRIQUE