Algeria is deepening its energy and mining cooperation with the European Union, focusing on natural gas supplies, hydrogen development, and strategic mineral investments. Algerian Minister of State, Mohamed Arkab, responsible for hydrocarbons and mines, met with EU Ambassador to Algeria, Diego Mellado, to discuss strengthening bilateral relations within the framework of the strategic energy dialogue. The meeting, also attended by the Secretary of State for Mines, Karima Bakir Tafer, signals a renewed commitment to energy security and sustainable development.
The discussions centered on the progress made in existing energy cooperation, particularly Algeria’s role in supplying natural gas to Europe. Both parties explored opportunities to increase production capacity through field development and the implementation of advanced technologies to reduce emissions and minimize the carbon footprint. Carbon capture and environmental protection projects were also highlighted as key areas for collaboration.
A significant portion of the meeting addressed the development of hydrogen energy, specifically within the framework of the “Southern Hydrogen Corridor” project (Corridor Sud H₂). This ambitious initiative aims to connect Algeria with Italy, Germany, and Austria, facilitating the future export of hydrogen and contributing to the energy transition and energy efficiency goals of the EU. Algeria is positioning itself as a major player in the emerging hydrogen market.
Minister Arkab emphasized Algeria’s invitation to European companies to increase their presence in the Algerian market through investments in both the hydrocarbon and mining sectors. He highlighted the recent legal and regulatory reforms designed to create a more attractive and transparent investment climate. These reforms aim to streamline partnerships and support foreign investors by providing a more flexible and predictable framework.
The discussions also touched upon the potential for investment in Algeria’s mining sector, with a focus on mutually beneficial partnerships with European companies. Key areas of interest include knowledge transfer, training, and the adoption of modern technologies, particularly in exploration, extraction, processing, and the valorization of mineral resources. The focus is on strategic minerals and rare earth elements. Algeria’s new mining law provides significant incentives and encourages the localization of mining industries within the country.
Ambassador Mellado expressed the EU’s satisfaction with the ongoing strategic energy dialogue with Algeria and acknowledged the growing interest of European companies in the Algerian market. He praised Algeria’s role as a reliable and important partner in ensuring European energy security. The EU expressed a strong desire to strengthen cooperation in the production of green and blue hydrogen, as well as the exploitation and processing of strategic minerals for use in industries, particularly those related to renewable energy. This partnership aims to create a mutually beneficial relationship that supports economic growth and sustainable development for both Algeria and the European Union. The focus on renewable energy and strategic minerals underscores the commitment to a cleaner and more secure energy future.
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Source: External reference
