On October 5, 2026, Algerian Minister of State for Energy, Mohamed Arkab, presided over the signing of several memoranda of understanding and cooperation agreements on the sidelines of the 14th edition of the Africa and Mediterranean Energy and Hydrogen Conference, "Naback 2026". The conference is being held from October 5 to 7, 2026, in Oran, Algeria. The signing ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials, including the President of the Regulatory Authority for Hydrocarbons, Amin Rimine, and the President of the National Agency for the Valorization of Hydrocarbon Resources, Abdelkader Cherfaoui.
One of the agreements signed was a protocol agreement between the Regulatory Authority for Hydrocarbons and the Italian company, Eni Algeria Exploration B.V. The agreement aims to establish a framework for cooperation and exchange of expertise in several technical and regulatory fields related to hydrocarbon activities. These areas include international technical standards, health, safety, and environmental regulations, well safety and integrity, environmental protection, and major risk prevention.
The protocol agreement also opens up opportunities for cooperation in training and capacity building. The agreement will enable the Regulatory Authority for Hydrocarbons to benefit from Eni's expertise and experience, which can also be extended to the Ministry of Energy and the National Agency for the Valorization of Hydrocarbon Resources. This cooperation aims to enhance the capabilities of Algerian personnel in the hydrocarbon sector.
Another agreement signed was a memorandum of understanding between the National Agency for the Valorization of Hydrocarbon Resources and the Thai company, PTTEP. The memorandum aims to establish a framework for cooperation that allows PTTEP to explore investment opportunities in Algeria's hydrocarbon sector, with the support and accompaniment of the National Agency. This cooperation seeks to promote institutional dialogue, exchange of information, and expertise.
These agreements are part of Algeria's efforts to strengthen international cooperation, exchange expertise, and develop national capacities in the hydrocarbon sector. The agreements are expected to contribute to the development of the sector and enhance Algeria's attractiveness for investment in this field. The hydrocarbon sector is a crucial component of Algeria's economy, and these agreements are expected to have a positive impact on the country's economic growth.
The "Naback 2026" conference brings together experts and stakeholders from the energy sector to discuss the latest developments and trends in the industry. The conference provides a platform for countries to share their experiences and expertise, and to explore new opportunities for cooperation and investment. Algeria's hosting of the conference demonstrates its commitment to playing a leading role in the regional energy sector.
The agreements signed on the sidelines of the conference are expected to have a positive impact on Algeria's economy and energy sector. The country's efforts to strengthen international cooperation and attract investment are crucial for its economic growth and development. The hydrocarbon sector is a key area of focus for Algeria, and these agreements are expected to contribute to the sector's growth and development.
Key points
- Algeria hosts "Naback 2026" energy conference to strengthen international cooperation and attract investment in the hydrocarbon sector.
- Minister of State for Energy, Mohamed Arkab, oversees the signing of cooperation agreements and memoranda of understanding with international companies.
- The agreements aim to enhance cooperation in technical and regulatory fields, training, and capacity building in the hydrocarbon sector.