Algerian Radio
The Minister of State, Minister of Hydrocarbons, Mr. Mohamed Arkab, received on Monday in Algiers the European Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Ms. Dubravka Šuica. The two officials discussed the current state and prospects of relations between Algeria and the European Union, exploring ways to strengthen them within the framework of their strategic dialogue, according to a ministry statement.
Mr. Arkab and the European official, who is on a working visit to Algeria, specifically reviewed cooperation in the hydrocarbons sector. They discussed "intensifying the exchange of expertise and organizing regular technical meetings between experts to foster a common understanding of issues of mutual interest," the source explained.
On this occasion, the Minister of State emphasized that cooperation in the hydrocarbons sector constitutes a fundamental pillar of the Algeria-EU partnership, given its pivotal role in supporting economic stability and ensuring the security of energy supplies. He noted that this partnership requires the continued mobilization of investments, particularly in exploration, production, and the development of infrastructure in the oil and gas industry, such as refining and petrochemicals.
The statement added that Mr. Arkab highlighted the structural reforms undertaken by Algeria in the hydrocarbons sector, led by the new legal framework which provides a more attractive and flexible investment environment. He underscored Algeria's position as a reliable energy supplier, particularly in natural gas, and its commitment to fulfilling its obligations toward its partners.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to review progress in energy cooperation, notably in the supply of natural gas to Europe and field development aimed at increasing production capacity. Discussions also touched upon expanding cooperation to include modern technologies, particularly those related to decarbonization, carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects, and joint efforts in environmental protection and energy transition.
In this context, Mr. Arkab called on European companies to strengthen their presence in the Algerian market by investing in hydrocarbons, highlighting that Algeria has provided a stimulating investment climate backed by legal and regulatory reforms that ensure transparency and simplify procedures.
Furthermore, the European Commissioner presented the features of the new "Mediterranean Pact," launched by the European Commission in October 2025. This pact aims to renew the Euro-Mediterranean partnership through a comprehensive approach focused on supporting stability, economic development, and enhancing cooperation in energy and energy transition.
For her part, the European Commissioner expressed satisfaction with the level of strategic dialogue between Algeria and the EU in the energy field, praising the quality of bilateral relations and noting the increasing interest of European companies in the Algerian market.
Expressing her "appreciation for the significant role Algeria plays as a reliable partner in enhancing European energy security," Ms. Šuica reaffirmed the EU's desire to expand cooperation with Algeria in areas of common interest to serve the mutual interests of both parties, the statement concluded.
