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In a high-level diplomatic engagement at the Ministry’s headquarters, the Minister of State, Minister of Hydrocarbons, Mr. Mohamed Arkab, received today, Tuesday, the Executive Secretary of the Latin American Energy Organization (OLADE), Mr. Andrés Rebolledo Smitmans.

Mr. Smitmans is on a two-day official working visit to Algeria (April 21-22, 2026), aimed at cementing energy ties between Algeria and the Latin American and Caribbean regions.

High-Level Presence from Algeria’s Energy Giants

The meeting was attended by the top leadership of Algeria’s energy sector, reflecting the profound significance of this transatlantic partnership:

Mr. Noureddine Daoudi: CEO of Sonatrach.

Mr. Samir Bakhti: President of ALNAFT (National Agency for the Valorization of Hydrocarbon Resources).

Mr. Amine Remini: President of the Hydrocarbons Regulatory Authority (ARH).

Senior officials and executives from the Ministry of Hydrocarbons.

During the high-level meeting, both parties reviewed the robust cooperation between Algeria and OLADE, a relationship that has consistently evolved since Algeria joined as an observer in 2001 and attained Permanent Observer status in 2018. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to elevating this partnership, particularly within the oil and gas industries, through technical synergies and the exchange of expertise in exploration, production, resource valorization, and R&D.

Market Stability and Global Coordination

The meeting served as a vital platform for exchanging perspectives on the shifting dynamics of global oil and gas markets. Key highlights included:

Market Stabilization: Emphasizing the necessity of coordination between producing nations to ensure supply security and maintain international market stability.

South-South Cooperation: Minister of State Mohamed Arkab underscored Algeria’s unwavering commitment to international dialogue, specifically through the South-South framework, to navigate the current challenges facing the hydrocarbon sector.

Just Energy Transition: The Minister stressed the importance of balanced approaches that respect the specificities of developing nations, advocating for a “Just and Sustainable Energy Transition” that does not compromise energy security.

Investment and Capacity Building

Discussions also delved into future investment prospects within the member states of the organization, focusing on

Value Chain Development: Enhancing the industrial linkages in the oil and gas sectors.

Human Capital: Strengthening professional capabilities through specialized training programs and technology transfer.

A Milestone Agreement: The Roadmap for Sustainable Growth

The Executive Secretary of OLADE expressed his profound appreciation for Algeria’s leadership in the global energy landscape, hailing the nation as a “Trusted Partner“ with invaluable expertise. He commended Algeria’s continuous support for the organization’s goals, particularly in human resource development and innovation.

The talks culminated in the official signing of a Strategic Cooperation Roadmap. This document establishes a practical framework for launching joint projects and exchange programs, aimed at fostering sustainable development and enhancing energy integration between Algeria and the Latin American and Caribbean regions.

ALGIERS – During the opening of the Algeria-Chad Business Forum, the Minister of Foreign Trade and Export Promotion delivered a strategic roadmap aimed at revolutionizing bilateral economic ties, bridging the gap between historical diplomatic relations and current trade figures.

The Minister emphasized that the bond between Algeria and Chad is rooted in a shared geographical and historical destiny. However, he was candid about the current economic state, describing the current trade volume of $1.85 million as “strikingly inconsistent” with the ambitions of both nations.

ZLECAf: A Gateway to New Horizons

The Minister highlighted the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA/ZLECAf) as a game-changer that offers unprecedented opportunities. By eliminating 97% of customs duties between the two countries, the agreement paves the way for a seamless flow of goods and services, aiming to lift Chad from its current position as Algeria’s 34th African trade partner to a much higher rank.

Strategic Sectors: Pharma, Fertilizers, and Electronics

As Algeria targets $10 billion in non-hydrocarbon exports, the Minister identified the Chadian market as a primary destination for high-quality Algerian products:

• Pharmaceuticals: Algeria currently produces 30% of Africa’s medicine needs and is fully prepared to secure Chad’s market requirements.
• Fertilizers: Following a record $1.5 billion in revenue in 2025, Algeria’s fertilizer industry is positioned as a “golden opportunity” to boost food security in the Lake Chad Basin.
• Electronics: With a remarkable 36% growth rate, Algerian electronic products have proven their international competitiveness and readiness for the Chadian consumer.

Logistics: Tamanrasset as the Gateway

The Minister addressed the logistical hurdles, noting that the absence of regular land corridors remains a significant barrier. He unveiled a vision to transform Tamanrasset into an official logistics hub and a launching pad for investments directed toward Chad.

Closing the Historical Gap

Reflecting on the broader continental context, the Minister lamented that intra-African trade remains low at only 15%. He called this a “historical delay” that must be rectified through strong bilateral partnerships. “Algeria will remain a loyal and committed partner to Chad,” he concluded, stressing that the time has come to translate political solidarity into tangible economic prosperity.

Algiers Welcomes OLADE Executive Secretary to Bolster South-South Cooperation

ALGIERS – The Minister of State, Minister of Foreign Affairs, National Community Abroad, and African Affairs, Ahmed Attaf, received on Tuesday the Executive Secretary of the Latin American Energy Organization (OLADE), Andrés Rebolledo Smitmans, who is currently on an official visit to Algeria, according to a ministry statement.

The meeting provided an opportunity to review the current state of cooperation with this regional organization, where Algeria holds the status of “Permanent Observer.” Both parties explored prospects for strengthening ties to align with the capabilities and expertise of Algeria and its partners in Latin America and the Caribbean, covering both traditional energy resources and renewable energy sectors.

Furthermore, the two officials exchanged views on global energy market developments. They discussed strategies to bolster South-South cooperation, particularly through intensified coordination within international forums dedicated to energy affairs, the statement added.

Source: Algeria Press Service (APS)