US Energy Giants Deepen Sonatrach Collaboration
A high-level Algerian delegation, led by Sonatrach CEO Nour Eddine Daoudi, conducted a strategic working visit to the United States from October 12 to 16. The mission's primary objective was to reinforce existing alliances and explore new opportunities within the upstream oil and gas sector. Key aims included stimulating technology transfer, attracting fresh investments, and promoting the sustainable development of Algeria's energy resources, showcasing Sonatrach's commitment to international engagement and modernization of its production capabilities.
During the visit, the delegation engaged in significant meetings with leading US energy companies. Discussions with ExxonMobil focused on evaluating the potential of Algerian hydrocarbon basins and prospects for joint exploration, directly extending a May 2024 memorandum of understanding for resource development in the Ahnet and Gourara basins. Furthermore, meetings with Devon Energy centered on identifying new investment opportunities and enhancing upstream production activities, while talks with Halliburton, a long-standing partner, aimed to consolidate existing key initiatives.
The collaboration with Halliburton specifically emphasized technological and digital advancements. Algerian officials attended presentations on innovative technologies and visited the firm's facilities, reinforcing commitments, including those made in September 2025, to integrate artificial intelligence and deploy technologies for carbon footprint reduction and optimizing oil services. This partnership also builds on previous support for local skills development, such as providing specialized software to three Algerian universities in April 2021. Sonatrach has also discussed expanding cooperation with Baker Hughes and KBR in energy technologies, engineering, and innovation, with Baker Hughes involved in a project to reinforce gas pressure in the Hassi R'mel field.
The Sonatrach delegation further participated in the 19th "Algerian Energy Day" in Lake Charles, Louisiana, an event dedicated to exploring historical energy cooperation and investment opportunities in oil, gas, and renewable energies between Algeria and the United States. Discussions highlighted Algeria's pivotal role as an energy supplier to the European market for both traditional and green energies. The event also underscored Algeria's commitment to reducing carbon emissions, developing the green hydrogen value chain, and advancing the Southern Hydrogen Corridor project, paving the way for new partnership prospects.
