French relief as Algeria frees jailed novelist at centre of diplomatic crisis

The pardon of Boualem Sansal by the Algerian president marks a significant moment in Franco-Algerian relations, which have been strained since his arrest nearly a year ago. Sansal, a prominent novelist, became a focal point of diplomatic tensions, reflecting broader issues between the two nations. His release is welcomed in France, indicating a potential thaw in relations and a recognition of the importance of cultural figures in diplomacy. This event underscores the complexities of political and cultural ties in the region, as both countries navigate their historical legacies and contemporary challenges.