Sonatrach and Germany’s VNG Sign New Natural Gas Supply Agreement

Algeria’s state-owned energy company Sonatrach and German firm VNG signed a new natural gas supply agreement in Berlin on Thursday, strengthening energy cooperation between Algeria and Germany.

The agreement was concluded during Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s official visit to Germany. The signing ceremony was overseen by Algeria’s Minister of State and Minister of Hydrocarbons Mohamed Arkab and Frank Wetzel, State Secretary at Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy.

Jochen Flasbarth, State Secretary at the German ministry responsible for the environment, climate protection, nature conservation and nuclear safety, also attended the ceremony.

Sonatrach CEO Noureddine Daoudi signed the agreement on behalf of the Algerian company, while VNG Chief Executive Officer Ulf Heitmüller represented the German side.

Arkab said the contract was the outcome of a long-standing relationship based on trust and cooperation between the two companies. He added that it reflects the strength of their partnership and confirms Algeria’s position as a reliable and secure energy supplier.

The minister described the agreement as a new milestone in strategic relations between Algeria and Germany. He said it demonstrates the two countries’ shared determination to deepen cooperation in the hydrocarbons sector, support energy security and contribute to the stability of international gas markets.

Arkab also called for the preparation of a joint action programme to intensify consultations and exchanges, while identifying new investment opportunities, particularly in natural gas. Such cooperation, he said, could increase production and marketing capacity, secure supplies and generate added value for both parties.

Wetzel praised Algeria’s central role in global energy markets and described the country as a reliable partner for Germany and Europe. He said the agreement would open new prospects for bilateral cooperation.

The contract forms part of a broader strategic energy partnership between Algeria and Germany, which also aims to diversify gas supplies and expand cooperation in renewable energy and green hydrogen.