Algerian Minister of State and Minister of Hydrocarbons, Mohamed Arkab, met with Nigerien Prime Minister, Ali Lamine Zine Mahamane, in Niamey to discuss the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP) project. The project, connecting Nigeria, Niger, and Algeria, aims to enhance energy integration and promote economic and social development in the region. Both parties stressed the project's strategic importance and the need for continued coordination to move forward with the initiative.
The meeting focused on several key aspects, including the launch of topographic studies for the pipeline's route in Nigerien territory and environmental impact assessments. These studies are crucial steps toward implementing the project. The Algerian delegation included Ambassador to Niger, as well as senior officials from Sonatrach, the national oil company. Nigerien government members also attended the discussions, highlighting the project's significance for both countries.
The TSGP project is a vital component of the energy cooperation between Algeria and Niger. Discussions also covered other areas of collaboration, such as exploration and production projects, including the Kafra oil field, and potential cooperation on other oil fields proposed by Niger. The two countries are exploring ways to strengthen their partnership in the hydrocarbons sector, including cooperation between Sonatrach and the Nigerien National Oil Company (SONIDEP).
Minister Arkab emphasized Algeria's commitment to supporting Nigerien-Algerian cooperation in the hydrocarbons sector, under the guidance of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. This support includes assistance to Nigerien enterprises, transfer of expertise, and development of skills and capacities. Such efforts aim to contribute to the economic and energy development of both nations.
Prime Minister Mahamane highlighted the historical and fraternal relations between Algeria and Niger, praising Sonatrach's role in supporting and developing Niger's hydrocarbons sector. He expressed Niger's commitment to strengthening cooperation with Algeria and expanding partnerships between the two countries.
During separate discussions with Nigerien Petroleum Minister, Hamadou Tini, Minister Arkab reiterated Algeria's readiness to accompany Niger in developing its hydrocarbons sector and valorizing its energy resources. The talks covered several priority dossiers and projects, including the TSGP, and were attended by experts and officials from both countries.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the strategic importance of the TSGP project and a commitment to advancing cooperation between Algeria and Niger in the hydrocarbons sector. The two countries are poised to enhance their collaboration, fostering economic growth and energy integration in the region.
Key points
- The Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline project is a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing energy integration and promoting economic and social development in the region.
- Algeria and Niger have reaffirmed their commitment to advancing cooperation in the hydrocarbons sector, including support for Nigerien enterprises and development of skills and capacities.
- The two countries are exploring ways to strengthen their partnership in the hydrocarbons sector, including cooperation between Sonatrach and the Nigerien National Oil Company (SONIDEP).
