1976 National Charter establishes a socialist state. 1979 Bendjedid Chadli sworn in as president. Ben Bella released after 15 years' detention. Agreement signed with France, whereby latter gives incentives for return home of 800,000 Algerian immigrants. 1981 Algeria helps to negotiate release of hostages from US embassy in Tehran, Iran.
Government introduces limited liberalization by giving private enterprise more freedom.
Algeria signs cooperation agreement with Soviet Union. Arab Maghreb Union established by the leaders of Algeria, Libya, Morocco, and Tunisia. 1990 Political exiles permitted to return home. FIS wins municipal elections. 1991 FIS leaders Abassi Madani and Ali Belhadj arrested.