The 14th edition of the African and Mediterranean Energy and Hydrogen Congress and Exhibition (NAPEC-2026) concluded on October 7, 2026, at the Mohamed Benahmed Convention Centre in Oran, Algeria. Algerian Minister of State for Hydrocarbons, Mohamed Arkab, held a series of bilateral meetings with leaders and representatives of major global hydrocarbon companies. These meetings aimed to strengthen and expand cooperation and partnership in the hydrocarbon sector.
Arkab met with Kanitta Sartwatayu, General Director of Thailand's PTT Exploration and Production (PTTEP), to discuss cooperation and partnership opportunities between Algeria's Sonatrach and PTTEP. The two parties reviewed existing cooperation, particularly in the exploitation and development of the Hassi Bir Rekaiz field in the Berkine basin. They also explored new project opportunities in exploration and production.
Arkab also held discussions with Mahmoud Al-Hashmi, CEO of Oman's OQ Group, on developing cooperation in various segments, including hydrocarbon exploration and production, petrochemicals, and liquefied natural gas (LNG). The meeting covered exchanging expertise and technologies in areas of common interest. Additionally, Arkab received a delegation from Oman's Petrogas, led by Fahad Al-Rashdi, to strengthen cooperation following a memorandum of understanding signed in May.
Arkab met with Warren Murdoch, CEO of Occidental Petroleum (Oxy) in Algeria and President of the American Chamber of Commerce in Algeria. They discussed opportunities to enhance cooperation in hydrocarbon exploration and production, field development, natural gas and LNG production and transportation, and petrochemicals. The meeting also covered valorizing national resources and transferring modern technologies and expertise.
Arkab also held a meeting with James Robert Stephen Downer, UK Ambassador to Algeria, and a representative of Clarke Energy. They discussed strengthening cooperation and partnership between Algeria and the UK in the hydrocarbon sector, particularly in prospection, exploration, and field development. The meeting covered investment opportunities along the value chain and developing oil and gas industries.
At the NAPEC 2026 opening ceremony, Algerian Minister of Energy and Renewable Energies, Mourad Adjal, stated that Algeria is focusing on developing renewable hydrogen and establishing a national integrated value chain. This effort aims to enhance industrial and technological capabilities and support a transition to a more sustainable energy system. Adjal emphasized the need to invest in the entire hydrogen production chain.
The US Embassy in Algeria announced that 17 American companies participated in NAPEC 2026, covering the entire energy value chain. These companies offer cutting-edge technologies, specialized expertise, and decades of experience in the global energy sector. They aim to establish partnerships with Algerian enterprises, providing technological innovation and expertise in fossil and renewable energy.
Key points
- Algerian Energy Minister Mohamed Arkab holds bilateral meetings with global energy leaders at NAPEC 2026.
- Algeria aims to develop renewable hydrogen and establish a national integrated value chain.
- 17 American companies participate in NAPEC 2026, offering expertise and technologies in the energy sector.
