Minister of State, Minister of Hydrocarbons, Mohamed Arkab, met with the Secretary-General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), Philippe M. M. Ngouo, in Algeria as part of a working visit spanning June 20 to June 23, 2026. Their discussions centered on developments in global natural gas markets and challenges facing the gas industry. The parties exchanged views on global gas market developments amid current geopolitical and economic shifts, focusing on supply security, investment sustainability, and the evolution of global demand. Emphasis was placed on strengthening coordination among GECF member states and continuing investment to ensure supply security and market stability. The importance of enhancing consultation among member states was stressed, implementing outcomes from the 7th GECF Summit in Algiers and the 'Algiers Declaration'. The GECF Secretary-General praised Algeria's key role within the Forum and its effective contribution to supporting cooperation among member states, commending efforts to ensure the success of the Gas Research Institute and promote the Forum's position on the international energy scene.
Strategic Gas Market Dialogue
Discussions affirmed the strategic importance of natural gas as a key resource for global energy security and a pillar supporting the energy transition. Participants emphasized the significance of enhancing the Gas Exporting Countries Forum's (GECF) contribution to analyzing global energy market developments and formulating common visions among member states. The growing role of the GECF as a strategic platform for dialogue and cooperation among producing countries was also a central topic. The GECF Secretary-General praised Algeria's key role within the Forum and its effective contribution to supporting cooperation among member states. Algeria, in turn, reiterated its commitment to supporting efforts aimed at enhancing dialogue and cooperation within the GECF, including the development of infrastructure and energy interconnection projects.
Key Infrastructure Projects
Discussions included the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP) project, identified as a strategic initiative linking Algeria, Niger, and Nigeria. Participants welcomed the actual commencement of the TSGP project and its reported progress. The parties also followed up on the advancement of the Gas Research Institute (GRI). The progress of activating the GRI, hosted by Algeria, was a significant focus during the discussions. The visit provided an opportunity to learn about the GRI, its missions, and its activities in supporting scientific research and fostering innovation within the energy sector.
Algeria's Expertise and Commitment
Minister of State and Minister of Hydrocarbons, Mohamed Arkab, showed Algeria's extensive experience in the natural gas industry, citing over six decades of involvement in exploration, production, transport, liquefaction, and marketing. Algeria expressed its readiness to share this expertise with the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) and its member states through enhanced technical and scientific cooperation. The discussions included key Algerian officials such as Samir Bakhti, Head of the National Agency for the Valorization of Hydrocarbon Resources (NAHD), Amin Remini, Head of the Hydrocarbons Regulation Authority (ARH), and Azzdine Ajab, Director of the Gas Research Institute (GRI). The need to accelerate the GRI's scientific and research programs and strengthen its partnerships was emphasized during the meetings.