Relations between Algeria and Spain are at a critical point following the recent visit of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to Morocco, which has triggered a series of events that have led to the freezing of bilateral relations by the Algerian government.
Until recently, there was cautious optimism in Algiers about the possibility of opening a new stage in relations with Spain, especially after the crisis generated by Moncloa’s alignment with Moroccan theses on the Western Sahara conflict. However, that hope has faded rapidly in the last week.
Pedro Sánchez’s express trip to Morocco, where he was received in audience by King Mohammed VI, and the Spanish president’s subsequent statements backing projects centred on Western Sahara have dynamited the first gestures of thaw. The Algerian government accuses Sánchez of having dashed hopes of a restoration of bilateral relations.
The reaction in Algiers has been one of anger and disappointment. Sánchez’s statements, in which he reiterated his support for the autonomy plan for the Sahara, are seen as pre-arranged and perceived as a betrayal of previous efforts to improve relations.
The Moroccan royal house added fuel to the fire by claiming to have Spanish backing for several projects, including a gas pipeline in the Sahara. This project, considered “unfeasible” by experts, has generated further tensions between Algeria and Spain.
The cancellation of Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares’ trip to Algeria has also contributed to the deterioration of relations. Disagreements over the agenda and a lack of tact in the trip’s preparations led to the cancellation of the visit, increasing tensions between the two countries.
Algeria’s loss of confidence is reflected in the conclusion that Spanish-Algerian relations have entered a ‘cold peace’. Algeria’s political elite feels betrayed by Sánchez’s government and considers that any move towards neutrality in the Western Sahara conflict has faded.
The situation also raises questions about Spain’s understanding of Algeria’s position and principles, especially given that Morocco was the main gas supplier to Spain in 2023.
In short, diplomatic tension between Algeria and Spain has reached its peak, and the prospect of an improvement in relations in the short term seems unlikely as long as the Sánchez government remains in power. A loss of trust and fundamental differences on key issues have left bilateral relations between the two countries at a standstill.