Bouteflika: Algeria’s participation in Bastille Day celebration is recognition of its people’s sacrifices

Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika said France’s invitation to his country to attend its National Day on July 14th is an official recognition of the Algerian people’s sacrifices for freedom.

Bouteflika believes that honoring thousands of Algerian victims who participated in the First World War will reinforce partnership between Algeria and France.

This comes as eminent war veterans’ organizations considered Algeria’s participation in the celebration as “unacceptable.”

“Since your state visit to Algeria in December 2012, we have been able to avoid traces caused by a painful past. We opened all the common cases between our peoples with a constructive spirit. No doubt, this will reinforce our relations in all the fields,” said Boutefklika in a congratulations telegram to his French counterpart François Hollande.

“I would like to express my sincere congratulations and best wishes on behalf of Algeria’s people and government for France,” he added.

Bouteflika’s letter ended a controversy about Algeria’s participation in France’s celebrations.