Algeria and Senegal are deepening their collaboration in the energy sector, with a strong emphasis on natural gas and knowledge sharing. Algerian Minister of State, Minister of Hydrocarbons and Mines, Mohamed Arkab, held bilateral talks with Senegal’s Minister of Energy, Petroleum, and Mines, Birame Soulèye Diop, in Doha, Qatar on Thursday. The meeting occurred on the sidelines of the 27th Ministerial Meeting of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF).
The discussions, attended by the Algerian Ambassador to Qatar and senior officials, provided a platform for exchanging perspectives on the current state and future prospects of Algerian-Senegalese cooperation in the hydrocarbons and mining domains. Both ministers highlighted the strong friendship between their nations and a shared political will to elevate the relationship to a multi-faceted strategic partnership.
The ministers explored investment and collaboration opportunities across the entire energy value chain. This included enhancing the value addition of natural resources, particularly in hydrocarbon exploration and development, and the petrochemical industry. Crucially, the talks emphasized support for training and the exchange of expertise, specifically between the Algerian Petroleum Institute and the Senegalese Institute for Training in Oil and Gas.
Both ministers emphasized the importance of reciprocal visits between officials from companies active in the hydrocarbons and mining sectors. The aim is to deepen consultations and identify concrete projects for collaboration and partnership. Minister Arkab stressed the need to expand cooperation and intensify coordination among African countries, particularly within the framework of the African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO). This collaboration is crucial for optimal resource utilization, achieving continental energy security, addressing the challenges of energy transition, localizing technology, and attracting investment.
The Senegalese Minister expressed his country’s keen interest in benefiting from Algeria’s leading experience in exploration, development, and energy transformation, as well as in training and developing skilled personnel. He highlighted the competence of Algerian human resources and the extensive technical expertise of national institutions, particularly Sonatrach, the Algerian state-owned oil and gas company. The discussions signal a strengthened partnership focused on leveraging Algeria’s experience in the gas sector to support Senegal’s burgeoning energy industry. Key areas of focus include natural gas exploration, production, and the development of related infrastructure. This collaboration is expected to contribute significantly to both countries’ energy security and economic growth, while also promoting regional cooperation within Africa’s energy sector. The meeting underscores the growing importance of South-South cooperation in addressing global energy challenges and promoting sustainable development.
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