Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has dismissed claims circulating in French political and media circles that Algeria receives financial aid from France, asserting that such allegations stem from ignorance about Algeria’s self-reliance.
Speaking at the opening of the National Cinema Sessions, Tebboune remarked, “Algeria needs no one but God Almighty and its people,” while emphasising the country’s sovereignty and resilience.
He welcomed friendships but made it clear that Algeria would not tolerate hostility.
Tebboune’s comments follow statements from French officials, including far-right politicians, alleging that France provides Algeria with development aid worth €800 million ($830 million).
The claims have been widely debunked, even by some French media outlets, and denied by the Algerian Press Service (APS).
The APS labelled the accusations as a pressure tactic, particularly from the French far-right, and noted that economic ties between the two nations are driven by trade and investment rather than aid.
It highlighted French exports to Algeria, valued at $3.2 billion in 2023, and investments of $2.5 billion—figures dwarfed by investments from other nations such as Türkiye, the United States, and Qatar.
The allegations have reignited tensions in Algeria-France relations, with Tebboune affirming his country’s independence and rejecting any attempts to undermine its dignity.
