Feb. 19, 1962 - Representatives of France and of the Algerian Moslem rebels have agreed on terms for ending the war in Algeria. The decisive step to halt the bitter conflict that has continued since Nov. 1, 1954, was reported to have been reached last night at a location in France close to the Swiss border. Nothing has been signed, however. Agreements on a cease-fire, on the period between the end of hostilities and a self-determination referendum, and on relations between France and an independent Algeria must be submitted first to each of the Governments for approval. In the case of France, approval is regarded as a foregone conclusion. President de Gaulle (pictured right) is scheduled to ask Cabinet for formal approval Wednesday. For the Algerians, approval of the terms appears to be less of a formality. The Provisional Government must approve them first in Tunis, then submit them to a special meeting of the National Council of the Algerian Revolution, which is scheduled to convene in Tripoli later this week. Although the signing of a ceasefire accord is considered a necessary step, few observers thought it would automatically create peace in Algeria. The conflict between France and many of her own citizens will continue and may even be intensified. The Secret Army Organization (OAS), which appears to control a large part of the European population in Algeria, has been carrying on a campaign of terror in Algeria and France for months. This campaign may be expected to rise in pitch after a ceasefire with the rebels. In Paris, police and security troops patrolled all parts of the city last night and today. Thousands of cars and pedestrians were halted and searched for arms or explosives.
Comments