Algerian Minister of State, Minister of Hydrocarbons, M. Mohamed Arkab, began a working visit to the Republic of Niger on Monday, accompanied by Sonatrach CEO M. Nourredine Daoudi. The high-level Algerian delegation, which also includes Sonatrach's Vice President-Director General for refining and petrochemicals and the Director General of Sonatrach International Exploration and Production (SIPEX), will continue its visit through Tuesday. This significant two-day visit aims to sustain the current dynamic in Algerian-Nigerien relations, specifically within the hydrocarbons sector, and to monitor the progress of projects that underpin the partnership between the two nations. The presence of such senior officials shows the strategic importance Algeria places on its energy collaboration with Niger.
Key Energy Projects Discussed
Projects under discussion during the visit include the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP), a major initiative involving Algeria, Niger, and Nigeria. This ambitious pipeline project is a cornerstone of regional energy integration. Algeria commenced construction work on its segment of the TSGP in June 2026, marking a significant step forward in the project's development. Concurrently, preparations and studies for the Nigerien section of the TSGP are currently underway, indicating active progress on all fronts. The visit by Algeria's Minister of Hydrocarbons, M. Mohamed Arkab, also encompasses developments in research and exploration efforts led by Sonatrach in partnership with Sonidep at the Kafra block. Officials will also use the visit to evaluate new oil blocks in Niger, including the promising Bilma block, to identify further opportunities for joint development. The delegation aims to strengthen cooperation and intensify coordination in the refining and petrochemicals sectors, areas key for adding value to crude resources. This includes monitoring the ongoing major maintenance work at the Zinder refinery in Niger, a critical piece of infrastructure for the country's energy independence. The discussions will also focus on developing partnerships between specialized institutions and organizations of the two countries, fostering a deeper technical and operational exchange.
Bilateral Discussions and Commitments
Minister Mohamed Arkab is scheduled to hold discussions with several Nigerien officials during his visit. These talks will focus comprehensively on strengthening bilateral cooperation in the hydrocarbons sector between Algeria and the Republic of Niger. Officials from both nations will also cover the development of partnerships between specialized institutions and organizations of the two countries, aiming to build strong frameworks for future collaboration. A key part of the agenda includes monitoring existing joint projects and evaluating prospects for their expansion, ensuring that current initiatives are on track and exploring new avenues for growth. These deliberations aim to deepen the energy relationship and explore new avenues for collaboration in the oil and gas industry, from exploration and production to refining and distribution. The visit confirms Algeria's commitment to strengthening cooperation with Niger, its neighbor and strategic partner.
Algeria's Strategic Cooperation Vision
The visit by Algeria's Minister of State, Minister of Hydrocarbons, M. Mohamed Arkab, to the Republic of Niger shows Algeria's commitment to strengthening cooperation with its neighbor. This diplomatic engagement aims to foster deeper ties in the energy sector, recognizing the mutual benefits that such partnerships can bring. The delegation's presence in Niger also confirms Algeria's dedication to consolidating partnerships rooted in the exchange of expertise and the effective valorization of energy resources. Algeria seeks to build strong relationships that benefit both nations through shared knowledge and joint development in the hydrocarbons industry. This strategic approach aligns with Algeria's broader vision for regional energy collaboration, emphasizing stability, shared prosperity, and sustainable development across the continent.