Algeria the apparent target as France looks to ban foreign flags at weddings

Relations are strained between Algeria and its European former colonial ruler.

JOHANNESBURG, April 13 (ANA) – France is seeking to ban foreign flags at weddings in a move apparently aimed at the Algerian national banner in particular, TRT World reported.

The news outlet reported on Monday that the prohibition on foreign flags at wedding ceremonies held in public buildings was part of an attempt to defend republican values.

It said the latest rule was part of a series of measures aimed at the country’s Muslim population, especially those with hyphenated identities.

Officially, the draft legislation making its through France’s parliament does not specify a nationality that would be targeted, but TRT World reported that legislators pushing it have targeted Algerians.

“If Algerians are happy to be in France, let them show it with a French flag,” one said.

Another French lawmaker Henri Leroy, who spoke of Algerians who hold wedding ceremonies in public buildings accused them of “invad(ing) the place noisily without any respect”.

“In France, the town hall is the symbol of our identity. It is therefore logical that only our flag flies there,” Leroy reportedly added.

If passed, the new law would make it easier for French mayors around the country to call the police on weddings deemed not sufficiently respectful of France, according to TRT World.

Meanwhile, Anadolu Agency reported that France had on Sunday dismissed reports of tensions with Algeria after Prime Minister Jean Castex abruptly called off his visit to the North African country.

The news agency said reports from North Africa blamed simmering tensions between Algeria and its former colonial ruler for the cancellation of the visit.

– African News Agency (ANA), Editing by Stella Mapenzauswa