Algiers, January 20, 2026 – Minister of Environment and Quality of Life, Ms. Kawther Krikou, met today in Algiers with Qatar’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Subaie, to discuss avenues for strengthening bilateral cooperation in the environmental sector.
The meeting, held at the Ministry headquarters, provided a platform for exchanging views on deepening collaboration, particularly in addressing climate change challenges and promoting sustainable development. The discussions also focused on sharing expertise and best practices in environmental protection and management.
Presentations and videos showcasing Algeria’s environmental conservation and desertification control projects, including the Green Dam initiative, were shared. A presentation highlighting the environmental damage caused by French colonialism in Algeria was also given.
In a press statement, Minister Krikou emphasized the significance of the Qatari Houbara Bustard Breeding Center, recently inaugurated in El Bayadh, highlighting its potential to contribute to ecological balance. She also revealed ongoing preparations for a memorandum of understanding between the two countries in environmental education and biodiversity.
Minister Krikou noted that the Qatari Minister expressed admiration for Algeria’s focus on environmental memory, specifically concerning the environmental damage inflicted during the colonial era. Both parties agreed to support environmental projects, particularly those focused on combating desertification.
The Minister also referenced the Arab Ministerial Council for Environmental Affairs’ recognition of Algeria’s Green Dam initiative in Nouakchott last October, advocating for its wider implementation across the Arab world. This initiative will be among the topics discussed in preparation for the upcoming summit on combating desertification in Mongolia in August 2026.
The Qatari Minister lauded Algeria’s efforts in biodiversity protection through the Green Dam and its commitment to quality of life and sustainable environmental development. He expressed Qatar’s interest in Algeria’s environmental projects and a desire to enhance technical expertise exchange, particularly in desertification control. He also commended the opening of the Houbara Bustard Breeding Center, aimed at conserving this protected bird through scientific programs. This partnership marks a significant step towards enhanced environmental stewardship in the region.
