The Secretary General of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Haitham Al Ghais, has started a 3-day working visit to Algeria. The visit, which began on September 26, 2026, was invited by the Algerian Minister of State, Minister of Hydrocarbons, Mohamed Arkab. During his stay, Al Ghais is expected to meet several high-ranking Algerian officials, including Arkab. The meetings will focus on developments in the hydrocarbon sector and global oil market prospects.
The visit coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Algiers Agreement, signed in 2016. The agreement was a significant step in rapprochement between OPEC member countries and non-member producers. It contributed to strengthening dialogue among international oil market players. The Algerian Ministry of Hydrocarbons stated that Al Ghais's presence in Algeria reflects the strong relations between Algeria and OPEC. The visit also demonstrates the shared commitment to continued cooperation and dialogue on energy issues.
The Algiers Agreement led to the establishment of the OPEC+ cooperation declaration. This framework enables consultation between OPEC member and non-member countries. Algeria played a key role in the emergence of this cooperation mechanism. The Ministry of Hydrocarbons emphasized Algeria's contribution to the agreement's success. The anniversary of the Algiers Agreement provides an opportunity to highlight the initiative's importance in establishing sustainable dialogue among major oil producers.
Discussions during Al Ghais's visit will cover several common-interest issues. The meetings will review recent developments in the global oil market and future collaboration between Algeria and OPEC. The visit is part of ongoing efforts by major oil producers to discuss market trends. Algeria and OPEC aim to strengthen dialogue on issues related to oil market stability.
The Algerian Ministry of Hydrocarbons announced the visit in a statement. The ministry highlighted the significance of Al Ghais's presence in Algeria. The visit demonstrates the strong ties between Algeria and OPEC. It also underscores the shared commitment to cooperation and dialogue on energy issues.
During his stay, Al Ghais will engage in talks with Algerian officials on key energy issues. The discussions will focus on the current state of the global oil market and future prospects. The visit is expected to strengthen cooperation between Algeria and OPEC. It will also provide a platform for both parties to discuss common challenges and opportunities.
The visit concludes on September 29, 2026. By then, Al Ghais and Algerian officials are expected to have discussed several key issues. The meetings will have provided an opportunity for both parties to review recent developments and future prospects in the global oil market.
Key points
- OPEC Secretary General Haitham Al Ghais visits Algeria to mark the 10th anniversary of the Algiers Agreement.
