France to send Algeria list of several dozen people to be expelled

France is preparing to send Algeria a list of individuals slated for expulsion from France, hoping the move will ease diplomatic tensions over migration, AFP reports. The list, containing "several dozen" names, is far smaller than the several hundred initially envisioned by French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau. The list is expected to be delivered in the next few days. 

The issue of Algeria refusing to accept deported nationals, including a suspect in a recent fatal attack in Mulhouse, has exacerbated tensions that were already heightened by France’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara. French President Emmanuel Macron is keen to avoid further escalation, particularly as intelligence-sharing and counterterrorism efforts in the Sahel remain a priority.

Relations between the two countries are in a state of "near-breakdown," but Algerian media welcomed Macron’s recent calls for de-escalation. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot reiterated France’s desire for improved ties, though he warned that "calm cannot be unilaterally decreed."