Strong Expression of Regret Amid France-Algeria Diplomatic Conflict
[Asia Economy International Department Reporter] French President Emmanuel Macron has described the 'Algerian Massacre in Paris' that occurred in 1961 as an "unforgivable crime."
According to overseas foreign media reports, President Macron made this statement on the 16th (local time) while attending the 60th anniversary memorial ceremony for the victims of the Paris massacre held at Pont de Bezons in Paris. Foreign media described it as the strongest expression of regret ever made by a French president regarding the Paris massacre.
The Paris massacre was a brutal incident in 1961 where Paris police shot Algerian protesters who were demonstrating against a curfew and disposed of some bodies in the Seine River. Pont de Bezons, where the memorial ceremony was held, was the place where Algerians started the protest and recovered the victims' bodies at the time. Although it is known that more than 200 people died, the exact number of victims has not been confirmed even after 60 years.
President Macron stated in an ?lys?e Palace statement, "The protest at the time was suppressed in a barbaric and blood-soaked violent manner," adding, "12,000 people were arrested, many were injured, and dozens died."
The ?lys?e Palace added that President Macron acknowledged that the tragedy was carried out under the command of the Paris police chief at the time and that this was an unforgivable act.
President Macron's remarks came amid diplomatic tensions between France and Algeria. In a recent interview with Le Monde, Macron stated, "The colonial history rewritten by the Algerian ruling class is fundamentally based on 'hostility towards France.'"
In protest against this remark, Algeria recalled its ambassador from Paris to the home country.
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