Algerian Radio
Representing the Minister of State, Minister of Energy and Mines, Mr. Mohamed Arkab, the Secretary General of the Ministry of Energy and Mines, Mr. Miloud Medjelled, participated in the proceedings of the 4th edition of the International Forum "Towards the South: The European Strategy for a New Geopolitical, Economic, and Socio-Cultural Era in the Mediterranean." The forum was held in the Italian city of Sorrento on May 15 and 16, 2026, in the presence of government officials, representatives and heads of economic and energy institutions, and experts from several Mediterranean and European countries.
The Secretary General participated in a number of panel and panel discussion sessions dedicated to energy issues and energy security. He also delivered a speech on behalf of the Minister of State, in which he reviewed Algeria's vision aimed at enhancing regional and international cooperation in the hydrocarbons sector, and consolidating its position as a reliable and secure partner in supplying energy markets.
In his speech, Medjelled emphasized Algeria's commitment to further developing the hydrocarbons sector through a balanced approach that combines ensuring energy security, encouraging investment, and reducing the carbon footprint, with a particular focus on methane emission reduction projects.
He also highlighted the reforms initiated by Algeria to improve the investment climate in the sector, particularly through the framework regulating hydrocarbon activities. Additionally, he noted that the recent launch of the Algerian licensing round, aimed at strengthening international partnerships, aligns with the state's strategic vision to enhance the attractiveness of the hydrocarbons sector and optimize national resources, thereby supporting Algeria's position as a reliable destination for energy investment.
On the sidelines of the forum, Medjelled held talks with the CEO of the Italian company Edison, Nicola Monti. The two sides exchanged views on the current state and future prospects of cooperation between Sonatrach and Edison in the oil and gas industry, particularly in natural gas and energy, as well as ways to strengthen cooperation and bilateral partnership to serve the mutual interests of both parties.
Algeria's participation in this forum falls within its efforts to strengthen dialogue and cooperation with its partners in the Mediterranean and European spaces, in a way that serves mutual development and enhances energy security and stability. As a reminder, this forum aims to create a space for exchange and consultation on growth prospects in southern Italy and the Mediterranean countries.
It also aims to build a platform between the public and private sectors—at both national and international levels—that brings together the best private and institutional actors, alongside representatives from the academic and research communities in the Mediterranean region, within a "Think Tank" initiative.
