Algerian-French Committee Member Asserts France Conceals Some Looted Algerian Artifacts
✏️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada
Algiers, Algeria | May 30, 2024 — Mohammed Ould Si Kaddour El-Korso, a member of the Algerian-French Committee for History and Memory, disclosed during an appearance on the “Dhayf Al Dawliya” program on Algerian International Radio that France is harboring several Algerian artifacts within its museums.
El-Korso articulated Algeria’s resolve to secure the release of these cultural treasures, despite facing staunch opposition from various quarters in France, including the far-right, the Black Feet, factions in the French Parliament, and others affiliated with Macron’s movement.
“Algeria is steadfast in its pursuit of what it deems essential: the liberation of artifacts currently imprisoned within French museums and reserves,” he declared.
He emphasized that the issue of repatriating these artifacts is a matter of fundamental sovereignty for Algeria, urging French authorities, including those at the Élysée Palace, to acknowledge and address it through concrete actions rather than mere rhetoric.
El-Korso lamented the committee’s inability to access Algerian properties unlawfully held in museum reserves, citing unspecified obstacles. He characterized President Tebboune’s visit as a genuine gesture aimed at fostering stronger ties between the two nations, while stressing the imperative of addressing Algeria’s historical grievances with objectivity and courage.
“Courage is required from both sides,” El-Korso asserted, advocating for flexibility on certain issues while urging serious engagement from the French side on matters of Algerian heritage restitution.
The spokesperson also highlighted that the fate of the committee and the trajectory of future relations will hinge on the outcomes of the President’s visit.
Reflecting on the committee’s recent visit to the “Amboise Palace,” El-Korso expressed dismay at the absence of Algerian heritage items within the premises where Prince Abdelkader was imprisoned with his family, save for a nearby martyrs’ cemetery. He advised against the President’s visit to the palace, citing its lack of symbolic representation of Algerian memory.
El-Korso elucidated the role of the History and Memory Committee, affirming its commitment to the principles outlined in the Evian Agreement. He underscored the urgency of recovering looted Algerian artifacts, including remnants of excavations considered as war spoils, highlighting the committee’s determination to pursue this endeavor.
About Dzair Tube Media Group
Dzair Tube has firmly established itself as a prominent player among Algerian digital news sites, offering a diverse and enriching content experience. The platform, available in Arabic, French, and English editions, captures the attention of a wide-ranging audience, amassing over half a million daily clicks.
A testament to its commitment to excellence, Dzair Tube received the prestigious President of the Republic’s Award for Professional Journalist in the Electronic Press category on October 22, 2022. This recognition underscores the platform’s unwavering dedication to upholding the highest standards of journalism.
With a significant online presence, Dzair Tube boasts 350,000 subscribers on YouTube, over five million followers on various Facebook pages, and 450,000 subscribers on Instagram. Its digital channel has become a hub for diverse programming, covering news, sports, entertainment, culture, and religion, catering to a broad spectrum of audience preferences.
Equipped with state-of-the-art studios and advanced technology, Dzair Tube’s digital channel has garnered substantial viewership for its varied programs. Hosting interactive discussions with influential figures across different domains, the platform actively fosters public discourse and engagement. Beyond news coverage, Dzair Tube extends its commitment to the production of marketing documentaries, short TV commercials, and high-viewership programs.
The success of the print edition of Dzair Tube’s sports newspaper, “Dzair Sport,” further highlights the platform’s impact, with over 50,000 daily downloads from the official Dzair Tube website.
Honored with the Media Leadership Award from the Minister of Communication, Mohamed Laâgab, Dzair Tube continues to shape the landscape of Algerian digital news, maintaining a position of influence and impact in the media industry.
