Algerian Minister of State for Hydrocarbons Mohamed Arkab recently visited Niger, leading a delegation to discuss energy cooperation with the West African nation. The visit aimed to strengthen the existing partnership between Algeria and Niger in the energy sector, which has already led to the implementation of several joint projects. During his visit, Arkab was received by Nigerien President Abdourahamane Tiani, who emphasized the importance of bilateral cooperation and expressed his country's desire to benefit from Algeria's expertise in the oil and gas industry.
President Tiani reiterated Niger's commitment to enhancing cooperation with Algeria and supporting the South-South partnership and African cooperation. He also conveyed his appreciation for Algeria's experience in the hydrocarbon sector, particularly in research, exploration, development, production, refining, and petrochemistry. The two parties reviewed the current state of cooperation between their countries, focusing on Sonatrach's activities in Niger, including the Kafra oil block exploration project.
The Algerian and Nigerien leaders discussed potential new projects, such as the Bilma oil block, and cooperation in refining. They emphasized the need to develop the partnership between Sonatrach and SONIDEP, Niger's petroleum products company, to maximize the value of their natural resources and enhance Niger's national capacities. The meeting also touched on the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP) project, which aims to connect the three countries and promote regional energy integration.
President Tiani expressed his enthusiasm for the TSGP project, highlighting its strategic importance for Niger, Algeria, and Nigeria. Both parties agreed on the need for continued coordination to advance the project's implementation, including the launch of topographic surveys, environmental studies, and geotechnical assessments on Nigerien territory. Arkab reaffirmed Algeria's commitment to supporting Niger's hydrocarbon sector development and strengthening cooperation between their institutions.
During his visit, Arkab also met with Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine to discuss the state and prospects of bilateral cooperation. The Algerian minister emphasized Algeria's dedication to supporting Niger's energy development through expertise transfer, capacity building, and accompaniment of Nigerien enterprises. The Prime Minister acknowledged the crucial role played by Sonatrach in Niger's hydrocarbon sector development and reaffirmed Niger's commitment to expanding partnership with Algeria.
Arkab also held talks with Nigerien Petroleum Minister Hamadou Tini, focusing on enhancing coordination between Sonatrach and SONIDEP. They reviewed the progress of the Kafra project and explored opportunities for cooperation in research, exploration, development, and production. The two ministers stressed the importance of leveraging their mutual expertise and experiences to drive growth in their respective energy sectors.
The visit concluded with a reaffirmation of the strong ties between Algeria and Niger, as well as a shared commitment to deepening energy cooperation and advancing regional integration. The two countries aim to build on the existing partnership and explore new opportunities for collaboration, ultimately contributing to the economic and social development of the region.
Key points
- Algeria and Niger have agreed to strengthen cooperation in the energy sector, focusing on projects such as the Kafra oil block and the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline.
