Algeria seeks increased European investment in hydrocarbons during EU Commissioner's visit
via Algérie3603 min read
European Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka Šuica, visited Algeria on May 4-5 to strengthen cooperation between the European Union and Algeria. Discussions focused on trade, investment, energy, migration, and security. A key meeting took place with the Minister of Energy and Mines, Mohamed Arkab, where they addressed the long-standing energy partnership and advancing the ecological transition. Minister Arkab urged European companies to increase investments in Algeria's hydrocarbon sector, emphasizing its importance for national economic stability and European energy security. He highlighted priorities such as intensifying exploration and production, developing oil and gas infrastructure, and strengthening refining and petrochemical capacities. Arkab also noted reforms, including a new hydrocarbon law designed to be more attractive and flexible. Commissioner Šuica welcomed the strategic dialogue and recognized Algeria as a reliable partner for European energy security. Algeria currently supplies approximately 12% of European gas imports, benefiting from its geographical proximity, existing infrastructure like the Transmed and Medgaz pipelines, and its status as Africa's leading gas producer. Beyond fossil fuels, cooperation in carbon emission reduction, carbon capture and storage projects, and environmental policies was discussed. Šuica also presented the "Mediterranean Charter," launched in October 2025, which aims to revitalize Euro-Mediterranean cooperation across
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