Algeria and the European Union sought to revive political dialogue on Thursday in Brussels, as representatives met for the second session of the Joint Parliamentary Committee.
While both delegations described discussions as “cordial,” the talks produced no concrete agreements, and sensitive economic issues, including the ongoing trade dispute with Brussels, remained unresolved.
Co-chaired by Algerian MP Sid Ahmed Temamri and Italian MEP Ruggero Razza, the session unfolded in a carefully measured atmosphere.
Participants repeatedly called for “balanced cooperation” and “constructive dialogue,” but avoided contentious topics.
The closing statement emphasized the “vitality of the strategic partnership” while deliberately sidestepping the trade arbitration that has strained relations for months.
The National People’s Assembly in Algeria highlighted the “open” nature of the discussions and reaffirmed the continuity of political engagement with Brussels.
On the European side, officials stressed the importance of maintaining “a permanent institutional channel,” noting that these parliamentary exchanges could lay the groundwork for more substantive economic negotiations in the future.
Tensions between Algeria and the EU have been escalating for several months. In June, the European Commission launched a trade dispute procedure, accusing Algiers of restricting imports and limiting opportunities for foreign companies.
Algerian authorities argue that the 2002 association agreement requires revision to correct what they see as structural imbalances detrimental to their economy.
The friction extends beyond trade.
Diplomatic disputes, including the suspension of the 2013 visa agreement with France, the refusal to accept certain expelled nationals, and reciprocal diplomatic expulsions between Algiers and Paris, have further complicated relations.
Algeria is also critical of European support for Morocco’s autonomy plan in Western Sahara, a persistent source of irritation for the government in Algiers.
These political and economic tensions have slowed energy and investment discussions and weakened security cooperation.
The Brussels parliamentary meeting, while limited in tangible outcomes, reflects a cautious step toward dialogue.
Both sides appear committed to preserving a strategic relationship considered essential for regional stability, even as mistrust continues to shape the interactions.
The resumption of talks underscores the delicate balance Algeria and the EU face: advancing diplomacy while navigating unresolved disputes that have persisted for years.
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