Paris, Macron – French President Emmanuel Macron praised Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s decision to release writer Boualem Sansal,
considering it “the fruit of quiet diplomatic efforts
and an approach based on respect and rigor.”
Macron said, in remarks carried by French media,
that “German mediation played a crucial role in reaching this humanitarian decision.”
He explained that Sansal’s release was the result of “fruitful cooperation
between Paris and Berlin in recent months”.
In a statement, the Algerian Presidency explained that President Abdelmadjid Tebboune
“responded to the request of his German counterpart Frank-Walter Steinmeier
to grant a special pardon to writer Boualem Sansal.”
She noted that the German request “was based on humanitarian considerations
related to the health condition of the person concerned.”
Germany will cover the treatment costs
The statement added that “German authorities will arrange for Sansal
to be transferred to Germany for treatment.”
The statement added that “German authorities will arrange for Sansal
to be transferred to Germany for treatment.”
This comes after the case turned from a judicial matter
into a complex political and diplomatic issue.
Macron expressed his “appreciation for the humanitarian
work carried out by President Tebboune.”
Five years imprisonment
He affirmed his readiness “to continue the dialogue with Algeria on issues
of common interest between the two countries.”
The Algerian judiciary had convicted Boualem Sansal, 81, who suffers from cancer,
He was sentenced to five years in prison last July, before being released by presidential pardon.
His lawyers, Pierre Cornut-Gentil and François Zimeray, also welcomed the decision.
They emphasized that “his release came after a long ordeal.”
Meanwhile, French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu expressed his hope
that “the writer will soon rejoin his family to receive the necessary treatment.”
