Algerian Minister of Energy and Mines Mohamed Arkab met today with Masoud Paulus, the U.S. Presidential Advisor for Africa and the Middle East, to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation in hydrocarbons and expanding partnerships into the mining sector.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Strengthening Energy Ties:

   • Both sides reviewed the "dynamic and growing" Algerian-American relations, emphasizing their commitment to enhancing strategic dialogue and multidimensional cooperation, particularly in energy, mining, and renewables.

   • Minister Arkab highlighted the successful partnerships between Sonatrach (Algeria’s state energy company) and U.S. firms such as Chevron, ExxonMobil, and General Electric (GE).

   • He praised the local manufacturing of energy equipment through the GE-Sonelgaz joint venture in Batna, the first of its kind in Africa.

2. Algeria’s Energy Strategy:

   • Arkab outlined Algeria’s plans to boost oil and gas production, attract investments, and promote industrial transformation, with a focus on petrochemicals, technological solutions, and emissions reduction.

   • He emphasized the competitive advantages of Algeria’s new legal frameworks for investment, hydrocarbons, and mining.

3. Expanding into Renewables and Mining:

   • Discussions covered cooperation in renewable energy, hydrogen, wind power, and energy storage, along with localizing equipment manufacturing.

   • Arkab invited U.S. companies to invest in mining resources, particularly in rare and strategic minerals, through partnerships that include knowledge transfer, training, and local value addition.

4. U.S. Interest in Enhanced Partnership:

   • Paulus expressed the U.S.’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Algeria and the interest of American energy firms in supporting resource development in energy and mining.

5. Broader Strategic Context:

   • The Algerian Energy Ministry stated that the meeting "reflects the depth and strength of Algerian-American relations" and a shared commitment to a "comprehensive strategic partnership based on trust and mutual interests."

   • Earlier, Paulus held talks with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf to discuss regional and international issues.

Quotes:

• Minister Arkab: "Algeria is keen to develop its mining resources and welcomes U.S. investment in rare and strategic minerals, with a focus on technology transfer and local value creation."

• U.S. Presidential Advisor Paulus: "The U.S. is committed to expanding energy and mining cooperation with Algeria, building on our strong existing partnerships."

Why It Matters:

• For Algeria: Strengthening ties with U.S. firms could boost foreign investment, technology transfer, and diversification beyond hydrocarbons.

• For the U.S.: Algeria is a key energy and mineral supplier, and deeper cooperation could secure critical resources while countering rival influences in North Africa.

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