Algerian Minister of State for Energy, Mohamed Arkab, met with Nigerien President, General Abdourahamane Tiani, in Niamey to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation in the energy sector. The talks focused on enhancing partnership in the hydrocarbons sector and promoting joint energy projects, particularly the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline project. The project aims to transport natural gas from Algeria to Nigeria, passing through Niger.
The meeting reviewed various aspects of cooperation between the two countries in the hydrocarbons sector, including the activities of Algerian energy giant Sonatrach in Niger. The two sides discussed the exploration and production of oil and gas in the Kufra basin and the development of new oil blocks, including the Bilma block. They also explored opportunities for cooperation in refining and marketing crude oil.
President Tiani praised Algeria's expertise in the oil and gas industry, expressing his country's desire to continue benefiting from Sonatrach's experience in exploration, development, production, refining, and petrochemicals. He also highlighted the importance of training and technology transfer to build local capacities. Arkab conveyed the greetings of Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, reaffirming Algeria's commitment to supporting Niger's development in the energy sector.
The Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline project was a key topic of discussion, with President Tiani emphasizing its strategic importance for Algeria, Niger, and Nigeria. He noted that the project would support economic development and promote energy integration in Africa. The two sides agreed to continue coordinating efforts to move the project forward, including launching a topographical survey of the pipeline route on Nigerien territory.
The Algerian and Nigerien delegations also discussed cooperation in the field of refining, particularly the major maintenance work at the Zinder refinery. They explored opportunities for joint marketing of crude oil and agreed to expand the partnership between Sonatrach and Nigerien company SONIDEP to cover all stages of the hydrocarbons industry.
The visit by Minister Arkab to Niger was carried out at the invitation of President Tebboune, aiming to strengthen bilateral cooperation and promote South-South partnership. The two countries have a long history of cooperation in the energy sector, and the talks are expected to lead to new agreements and projects that will boost economic ties between Algeria and Niger.
The agreement to accelerate the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline project is seen as a major breakthrough in the energy sector, with significant implications for the region's economic development. The project is expected to create new opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and energy access, while also promoting regional integration and cooperation.
Key points
- Algeria and Niger have agreed to accelerate the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline project, a major energy initiative aimed at boosting economic cooperation and integration in Africa.
