On September 22, 2026, Niger's President Abdourahamane Tiani received Algerian Minister of State for Hydrocarbons Mohamed Arkab at the Presidential Palace in Niamey. Arkab was leading a delegation and carrying a message from Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. The meeting aimed to strengthen bilateral relations, particularly in the strategic sector of hydrocarbons.
During the meeting, Arkab conveyed President Tebboune's greetings and commitment to reinforcing historical and fraternal ties between Algeria and Niger. He emphasized Algeria's willingness to pursue and enhance cooperation with Niger in hydrocarbons, based on African solidarity, complementarity, and concrete projects.
Arkab received guidance from President Tiani on Niger's priorities in the hydrocarbons sector, including natural resource valuation and capacity building. These orientations will serve as a framework to boost cooperation between the two nations. The trans-Saharan gas pipeline (TSGP) project was a key topic of discussion, aiming to connect Algeria, Niger, and Nigeria.
The Algerian minister announced that they reviewed preparatory steps for launching a topographic survey of the TSGP route on Nigerien territory, as well as necessary studies for the project's progress. They also explored cooperation in exploration and production, particularly through Sonatrach's project on the Kafra perimeter.
Furthermore, Arkab mentioned that they examined possibilities for expanding cooperation to other exploration blocks proposed by Niger. Commercialization and valorization of Nigerien crude oil were also discussed, with Sonatrach potentially providing expertise, marketing, and negotiation support to Niger.
Strengthening cooperation in hydrocarbons aligns with Niger's efforts to develop its natural resources and enhance its capacities. The country has been actively engaging with regional and international partners to boost its economy. Algeria, as a key player in the region, is well-positioned to support Niger's development goals.
The meeting between President Tiani and Minister Arkab demonstrates the commitment of both countries to fostering cooperation and reinforcing their historical ties. The two nations will continue to work together to implement concrete projects, particularly in the hydrocarbons sector, to drive economic growth and development in the region.
Key points
- Algeria reaffirms its willingness to strengthen cooperation with Niger in the hydrocarbons sector.
- The trans-Saharan gas pipeline project is a key area of cooperation between Algeria, Niger, and Nigeria.
- Niger and Algeria aim to enhance their cooperation in exploration, production, and commercialization of hydrocarbons.
