Algeria FM 'astounded' by French criticism of national anthem revision

Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Ataf has hit back at criticism from his French counterpart Catherine Colonna over Algeria's recent revision of its national anthem.

While on an official visit to Rome, Ataf told Italian news agency Nova that he was "astounded by the fact that the French foreign minister thought she could express an opinion on the Algerian national anthem".

"For certain French parties or politicians, one gets the impression that Algeria has become an easy subject to use for political purposes," Ataf told Nova.

His comments came after Colonna told French news channel LCI last week that Algeria's re-adding of a verse - dating back to the country's struggle for independence from the French in the mid-20th century - to its national anthem was "outdated".

"Even if the context of the time explains it, I have to say that I ask myself if this seems a bit outdated," Colonna said of the re-addition.

The reinstated verse of the anthem - which was adopted in 1962 after Algeria gained independence from France in a long and brutal war - explicitly mentions France, promising "a day of reckoning".

The verse says: "O France, the time of reproof is over, And we have ended it as a book is ended; O France, this is the day of reckoning, So prepare to receive from us our answer!"

The segment was previously removed to avoid tension with Paris, especially during the period when Algeria was facing economic difficulties due to an oil crisis in the 1980s.

The history of strained relations between the two countries dates back to 1830, when France colonised Algeria, engaging in a violent and prolonged campaign of subjugation against the Algerian people.

Saturday's move came amid escalating political tensions between Algiers and Paris as historical grievances continue to impact the relationship.

Algerian-French ties fell into crisis in late 2021 after controversial comments on Algerian history by French President Emmanuel Macron.

Algeria has been critical of France's colonial past and has called for recognition and apologies for the injustices committed during its colonial rule.

There was some reconciliation last summer when Macron visited Algeria 60 years after the North African country won independence.