Algeria claims it supports religious freedom after criticism from US

Algeria's Minister of Religious Affairs, Youcef Belmehdi, inisisted the country supports religious freedom, in response to criticism from the United States, AFP reports. At a meeting with Archbishop of Algiers Jean-Paul Vesco and U.S. Ambassador Elisabeth Moore Aubin, Belmehdi emphasized that "freedom of worship is guaranteed within the framework of respect for the law."

The U.S. recently added Algeria to a watchlist for alleged violations of religious freedom, citing the closure of evangelical churches and the enforcement of blasphemy laws. The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom accused Algerian authorities of restricting religious practice and prosecuting individuals for unauthorized worship and proselytization.

While Algeria’s constitution guarantees worship rights, Islam is the state religion, and government approval is required for religious leaders and places of worship. Meanwhile, Vesco, a French-born naturalized Algerian, to be appointed the first Algerian Cardinal in 60 years by Pope Francis next week.