Algerian Minister of Energy, Mohamed Arkab, has reaffirmed Algeria's commitment to supporting Niger's development of its hydrocarbon sector during a meeting with Nigerien Petroleum Minister, Hamadou Tini, in Niamey. According to a statement from the Algerian Ministry of Energy, Arkab emphasized Algeria's willingness to accompany Niger in developing and valuing its energy resources. The meeting was attended by senior officials from both countries, including the CEO of Algerian energy giant Sonatrach.
The talks between Arkab and Tini took place within the framework of a working visit by the Algerian minister to Niger, instructed by Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. The visit aims to monitor and evaluate the progress of various projects and cooperation agreements between the two countries in the hydrocarbon sector. The ministers discussed several priority files and projects, including the exploration and research project being implemented by Sonatrach in the "Kafra" oil block in northern Niger.
The two sides also reviewed the prospects for developing and exploiting new oil blocks proposed by Niger, including the "Bilma" block. They emphasized the importance of continued coordination between Sonatrach and Niger's national oil company, SONIDP, to monitor the various stages of the "Kafra" project. This project aims to strengthen cooperation in exploration, development, and production, as well as mutual benefit from expertise and experiences.
The ministers also explored ways to enhance cooperation in refining and petrochemistry, particularly through the maintenance of the Zinder refinery in Niger. They highlighted the importance of training, technology transfer, and capacity building for local expertise. Furthermore, they discussed opportunities for cooperation in the joint marketing of Nigerien crude oil, with Sonatrach supporting SONIDP in valuing Niger's oil resources and enhancing its marketing and negotiation capabilities.
The meeting also focused on the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline project, which connects Algeria, Niger, and Nigeria. The ministers stressed the project's strategic importance in promoting regional energy integration, developing Africa's gas infrastructure, and supporting economic and social development in the region. They reviewed preparatory measures for the topographic survey of the pipeline's route on Nigerien territory and environmental impact studies.
Arkab and Tini agreed to continue coordination between the parties involved and to launch these operations as soon as possible. This would enable progress in the realization of the project. Arkab reiterated Algeria's commitment to supporting Niger's hydrocarbon sector development, in line with President Tebboune's directives. He emphasized the transfer of expertise, training, and knowledge sharing to contribute to the valorization of Nigerien energy resources.
Tini, in turn, acknowledged the importance of cooperation with Algeria, particularly through Sonatrach. He expressed satisfaction with the level of coordination between the two countries and highlighted Algerian expertise in training, development, and capacity building. Tini stressed Niger's desire to continue and expand this partnership. The two ministers' discussions reflect the growing dynamics in bilateral relations between Algeria and Niger.
Key points
- Algeria has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Niger's development of its hydrocarbon sector.
- The two countries are cooperating on several projects, including the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline and the development of Niger's oil blocks.
- The cooperation aims to strengthen regional energy integration and promote economic and social development in the region.
