Tunisia calls for normalization of Moroccan - Algerian relations

Tunisia has voiced hope to see relations between Morocco and Algeria normalized. The wish was expressed by Tunisian foreign minister, Habib Benyahia, who called on Morocco and Algeria to settle their divergences in order to revive the Arab Maghreb Union (UMA). UMA was set up in 1989 by Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Mauritania.

Relations between Rabat and Algiers are strained due mainly to Algeria's direct involvement in the Sahara issue. The tension adversely impacted the UMA, which has so far been unable to take off as a full-fledged regional grouping.