Power International Holding Explores Algerian Hydrocarbon Investments

Mohamed Arkab, Algeria's Minister of Energy, recently met with Ramez El Khayat, CEO of Qatar's Power International Holding (PIH), alongside the Qatari ambassador to Algeria and a high-level delegation. The discussions centered on strengthening strategic cooperation and partnership between Algeria's national oil company Sonatrach and PIH's subsidiary, UCC Holding, with a particular emphasis on expanding Qatari investments in Algeria's hydrocarbon sector.

During the meeting, both parties explored opportunities across various segments of the oil and gas industry, including upstream and downstream activities, transportation, refining, and petrochemicals. Commercial cooperation, specifically concerning liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and other petroleum products, was also a key focus. Minister Arkab presented a comprehensive overview of Algeria's hydrocarbon sector development program, inviting the Qatari group to utilize the attractive investment advantages, facilities, and supportive legal framework offered by Algeria's hydrocarbon law. He further extended an invitation for PIH and its subsidiaries to actively participate in the upcoming "Algerian Bid Round 2026" for the development of available exploration fields and blocks.

Ramez El Khayat, on behalf of Power International Holding, expressed significant interest in broadening his group's investments within Algeria and collaborating with Sonatrach to realize high-value-added projects in the hydrocarbon domain. He commended the strong bilateral relations between Algeria and Qatar, acknowledging Algeria's encouraging investment environment. The meeting concluded with an agreement for both sides to initiate direct technical discussions and coordination with Sonatrach, aiming to swiftly study practical mechanisms for the on-the-ground implementation of these partnership projects.