Algerian Minister of State for Energy, Mohamed Arkab, was received in Niamey by Niger's Prime Minister, Ali Lamine Zeine, on September 22. The meeting was attended by several members of the Nigerien government and focused on reviewing the current state and future prospects of bilateral cooperation between Algeria and Niger in the energy sector. The two sides discussed ways to strengthen and expand their partnership in areas of mutual interest.
The meeting covered various joint projects, including a search and exploration project being implemented by Algerian energy company Sonatrach in the Kufra oil field. The two countries also discussed prospects for cooperation on other oil blocks proposed by Niger, particularly the "Bilma" block. Additionally, they explored ways to enhance cooperation between Sonatrach and Niger's national oil company, SONIDEP.
The two sides also discussed cooperation in refining and petrochemicals, particularly with regards to maintenance work at Niger's Zinder refinery. They also examined ways to expand cooperation between specialized institutions in both countries in this field. Furthermore, they reviewed the file on joint marketing of Nigerien crude oil and explored ways to develop this cooperation.
The project for a trans-Saharan gas pipeline, which connects Algeria, Niger, and Nigeria, was a key topic of discussion. Both sides reaffirmed the strategic importance of this project, which aims to support African energy integration and promote economic and social development in the region. They emphasized the need for continued coordination between the parties concerned.
Minister Arkab stated that Algeria, under the guidance of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, will continue to support Algerian-Nigerien cooperation, particularly in the energy sector. This will involve accompanying Nigerien institutions, transferring Algerian expertise, and developing skills and capacities to serve the economic and energy development of both countries.
Niger's Prime Minister, Ali Lamine Zeine, highlighted the importance of historical and brotherly relations between Algeria and Niger. He praised the role played by Sonatrach in accompanying and developing Niger's energy sector and expressed Niger's commitment to strengthening cooperation with Algeria and expanding partnership areas between the two countries.
The two-day visit by Minister Arkab to Niger aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the energy sector and review progress on joint projects. The visit also reflects the commitment of both countries to promoting African energy integration and cooperation.
Key points
- Algeria and Niger to strengthen cooperation in the energy sector
- Trans-Saharan gas pipeline project a key area of cooperation
- Algeria to support Nigerien institutions in the energy sector
