Algeria reduces representation level during meetings in Morocco

Algeria will reduce its representation level in all multi-party official meetings held in Morocco following tension in bilateral relations between the two countries.

“Algeria decided with sovereign attitude to limit its representation level during multi-party meetings which will be held in Morocco,” spokesman for the Algerian foreign ministry Amar Blani said on Sunday.

This comes as Morocco summoned its ambassador to Algiers shortly before the Algeria’s flag had been torn at its consulate in Casablanca.

Algeria considered the act as “unacceptable” while the Moroccan government described it as an “isolated act.”

Sources said Algeria officially asked to postpone a meeting due to be held between the Arab Maghreb Union’s foreign ministers between November 26th and 29th in Rabat.

The Algerian foreign minister Ramtane Laamamra did not attend a meeting held in Morocco about borders security. A few days ago, a member of Algeria’s Parliament and a senator at the Council of the Nation withdrew from an international conference at Moroccan Parliament on its 50th anniversary.

Observers believe that this “Algerian escalation” comes after the man who tore the flag was sentenced to two suspended months in prison and a 250-Ryal-fine.

This sentence which was a “royal pardon” can encourage similar acts as Moroccan authorities did not punish the man and considered his behavior as an “isolated act.”

Algeria said it was not convinced by the “Isolated act” story. It considered it as unpleasant act and a crime without punishment.