Algiers – Algerian Minister of Energy and Mines, Mohamed Arkab, met on Thursday in Algiers with Vladislav Davankov, Deputy Chairman of the Russian State Duma, and his accompanying delegation. The meeting, held at the Ministry’s headquarters, was attended by Munther Bouden, Vice President of the National People’s Assembly, ministry officials, and the head of Russia’s economic mission in Algeria, according to an official statement from the Ministry.
During their discussions, the parties reviewed the status of collaborative efforts between Algerian and Russian companies in the energy and mining sectors, with a mutual commitment to further strengthening ties in these critical industries. The meeting focused on identifying new opportunities and maximizing cooperative ventures in energy and mining, following the two nations’ signing of an extended strategic partnership agreement in June 2023, which included multiple agreements and memoranda of understanding between Algeria and Russia.
Minister Arkab presented Algeria’s strategy for energy and mining sector development, which emphasizes expanding investments to boost production and refining capacities for oil and gas. He highlighted the promising partnership opportunities in hydrocarbons exploration, development, and utilization, particularly within petrochemicals, by strengthening cooperation between Sonatrach and Gazprom.
Arkab expressed optimism about building mutually beneficial partnerships, leveraging Algeria’s recent hydrocarbon legislation designed to attract foreign investment. He reassured potential partners of Algeria’s commitment to supporting investors through all phases of project implementation.
The minister also highlighted Algeria’s commitment to advancing its rich mining resources and invited Russian firms to invest in Algeria’s mining sector. He encouraged them to engage in mutually beneficial partnerships with Algerian companies, focusing on knowledge transfer and workforce training, particularly in exploration, extraction, and development of mining assets—especially rare earth elements.
Both parties also acknowledged substantial collaboration potential in renewable energy, particularly solar photovoltaics. They explored cooperative possibilities in nuclear technology applications for medical purposes, including radiopharmaceutical production to combat cancer. Additionally, they discussed cooperation in desalination technologies and the local manufacture of related equipment to meet Algeria’s water security needs.
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Author: Nor-Eleslam
Algeria-Russia energy and mining cooperation
