Algerian Minister of State and Minister of Energy and Mines, Mohamed Arkab, met with Azerbaijani Minister of Energy, Parviz Shahbazov, in Moscow on 26 October 2026. The two officials convened to discuss the expansion of energy cooperation between Algeria and Azerbaijan.
The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 28th Ministerial Meeting of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF). Discussions during this session focused on potential areas for collaboration within the energy sector, building upon the diplomatic ties between the two nations. Representatives from both countries evaluated current energy policies and identified opportunities for future partnership.
Expanding Cooperation in Hydrocarbons
Mohamed Arkab and Parviz Shahbazov expanded their dialogue to include specific technical sectors within the hydrocarbon industry. Both officials examined opportunities for cooperation in hydrocarbon exploration, well services, transport, refining, and petrochemicals. These sectors represent primary areas where the two nations intend to align their industrial capabilities.
Investment strategies involving state-owned enterprises also appeared on the agenda. Mohamed Arkab and Parviz Shahbazov discussed potential investment and partnership initiatives between Sonatrach and SOCAR. Such a collaboration aims to integrate the operational expertise of the Algerian company with the infrastructure and market reach of its Azerbaijani counterpart. The ministers evaluated how these companies might coordinate activities to improve efficiency and project development across their respective energy portfolios. Both sides requested further technical assessments to determine the feasibility of joint ventures between Sonatrach and SOCAR. Future meetings will address the structural details of these proposed partnerships as the two nations continue to refine their bilateral energy agenda.
New Investment Opportunities Offered
Mohamed Arkab presented an invitation to Azerbaijani companies to participate in the 'Algeria Bid Round 2026' international tender. This tender encompasses seven exploration blocks currently available for investment. The Algerian Minister of State and Minister of Energy and Mines proposed that these blocks provide a platform for Azerbaijani firms to expand their operational presence within the Algerian hydrocarbon sector.
Parviz Shahbazov and Mohamed Arkab also reviewed preparations for the upcoming session of the Algerian-Azerbaijani Joint Intergovernmental Commission for trade, economic, scientific, and technical cooperation. The two ministers assessed the current status of the commission’s agenda to ensure that the scheduled session effectively addresses mutual economic objectives. This body serves as the primary mechanism for coordinating bilateral cooperation across the commercial, scientific, and technical sectors.
Market stability remained a central theme throughout the discussions held in Moscow. Mohamed Arkab and Parviz Shahbazov stated that coordination within OPEC, OPEC+, and the Gas Exporting Countries Forum is essential for the industry. Both officials identified these organizations as the primary platforms for aligning production policies and managing market volatility. By maintaining consistent communication within these international forums, the ministers intend to support long-term energy market stability.
