Sansal, 81, was arrested by Algerian authorities a year ago and sentenced in March to five years in prison for allegedly undermining national unity, a case that strained Algeria’s already tense relations with France. The author, long a critic of the Algerian government and residing in France, denied the charges, insisting he never intended to insult Algeria or its institutions.
The Algerian presidency said Tebboune “responded positively” to Steinmeier’s request, praising it for its “humanitarian nature and motives.” Tebboune had previously labelled Sansal an “imposter.”
Germany will oversee Sansal’s transfer and medical care, according to the presidency. French outlets reported that Sansal is battling cancer.
French President Emmanuel Macron expressed gratitude to Steinmeier for mediating and thanked Tebboune for the “gesture of humanity.” Macron said he was open to discussing broader bilateral issues with Algeria.
French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu described the pardon as a relief and hoped Sansal could be reunited with his family promptly and receive medical treatment.
The case comes amid deteriorating Paris-Algiers relations, which worsened after France recognised Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara.