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Algeria recalls ambassador from Morocco for consultation

July 19, 2021 at 11:39 am

An Algerian anti-government demonstrator waves an Amazigh (Berber) flag during a protest in the capital Algiers, on March 12, 2021 [RYAD KRAMDI/AFP via Getty Images]

Algeria has recalled its ambassador from Morocco for consultation purposes, Anadolu has reported. The government in Algiers has not ruled out “taking other measures” in protest against statements made by Morocco’s representative to the UN, which it described as “aggressive” and supportive of a local separatist movement classified as a “terrorist” group.

The Algerian Foreign Ministry said on Sunday that it had requested clarification from Morocco. “Due to the absence of any positive and appropriate response from the Moroccan side, it was decided today to summon Algeria’s ambassador in Rabat, Abdelhamid Abdaoui, immediately for consultation, and further measures may be taken depending on how this case develops.”

The separatist movement in question, the MAK, is seeking self-determination for Kabylie. It is based around the areas to the east of Algiers inhabited by the Amazigh/Berbers.

READ: Algeria demands Rabat to clarify UN representative’s statements on Kabyle people’s right to self-determination

On Thursday, Moroccan media quoted Rabat’s delegate to the UN, Omar Hilal, as calling for the “independence of the Kabyle people” in Algeria during a meeting of the Non-Aligned Countries on 13 and 14 July.

This followed Algerian Foreign Minister Ramtane Lamamra’s announcement of his support for the right of self-determination for the inhabitants of Western Sahara. The territory remains disputed between Morocco and the Polisario Front, a movement which is backed by Algiers.

Algeria said on Saturday that Morocco is involved in an “anti-Algerian campaign” which will have an effect on the Amazigh people living in the Kingdom.