Indonesian Oil Giant Strengthens Collaboration, Optimizes Algerian Assets

A delegation from Indonesian state-owned energy company Pertamina, alongside Pertamina Hulu Energi (PHE) Subholding Upstream, conducted a working visit to Algeria from October 20-22, 2026. The visit aimed to strengthen the existing energy partnership between Indonesia and Algeria, ensure the sustainability of Pertamina's upstream oil and gas operations, and explore new opportunities for cooperation. Led by Pertamina's Vice President Director Oki Muraza, the delegation engaged with key Algerian stakeholders.

During their visit, Pertamina's representatives met with Abdelkader Cherfaoui, President and Head of the ALNAFT Management Committee, Algeria's hydrocarbon sector regulator. Discussions focused on the ongoing operations in Block 405A, coordination of work programs, and potential avenues for expanding Pertamina's portfolio within Algeria. Oki Muraza underscored the importance of reinforcing relationships with the Algerian government, regulators, and industry partners as a crucial strategy for sustained investment and optimizing the contributions of international assets. He highlighted the strong fraternal ties between Indonesia and Algeria, affirming the partnership as a long-term strategic endeavor rather than merely a commercial one.

The delegation also held meetings with Mohamed Arkab, the Algerian Minister of Hydrocarbons and Mining, to discuss government support for energy cooperation, global energy market dynamics, and collaborative opportunities offering mutual benefits. Further discussions took place with Nour Eddine Daoudi, Chairman and CEO of Sonatrach, Algeria's national oil and gas company and a strategic partner to Pertamina. These talks centered on enhancing collaboration in the upstream oil and gas sector, facilitating crude oil supply to Indonesia, and identifying new cooperative ventures that would complement their ongoing partnership.

Pertamina Algeria EP (PAEP), a local subsidiary, plays a vital role in maintaining the operational performance of Block 405A, optimizing production potential, and contributing to the partnership. The visit provided strategic direction for PAEP to further enhance its operational performance and optimize the asset's potential in Algeria. Pertamina reaffirmed its commitment to reinforcing its energy partnership in Algeria, ensuring the continued operation of Block 405A, and fostering synergy with the Algerian government, regulators, and industry partners to potentially open new business opportunities and strengthen bilateral relations.