Algeria’s Minister of Energy and Mines, Mohamed Arkab, emphasized on Friday that Algeria is working on enhancing the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline project, which will connect Nigeria to the Mediterranean coast, passing through Algeria and Niger by linking with the Algerian gas network.
Arkab, in his speech during the third edition of the international forum “Towards the South: European Strategy for a New Geopolitical and Economic Era in the Mediterranean,” held in Sorrento, Italy, explained that the project will contribute to the natural gas supply for Europe, thus boosting energy security in the northern Mediterranean coast and supporting the socio-economic development of the transit countries.
Furthermore, Arkab mentioned that Algeria will participate in a strategic dialogue with its European partners concerning the establishment of the Southern H2 Corridor. This corridor aims to transport renewable hydrogen produced in Algeria to Germany via Tunisia, Italy, and Austria.
He added that realizing this “massive” project will require the formation of robust partnerships between the public and private sectors, highlighting that such collaboration will enable “the mobilization of the significant investments needed through partnerships to develop the infrastructure for hydrogen production, storage, and transport.”
In this context, Algeria’s Energy and Mines Minister reaffirmed the country’s intention to become a “major supplier in the hydrogen field” due to its vast capabilities for its preparation.
On the regional level, Arkab reiterated Algeria’s commitment to building a “strong and effective regional partnership” and becoming a major energy hub in the region and a central point for energy exchange, thanks to several projects, especially the electrical linkage and the Southern Hydrogen Corridor between Algeria and Europe. This will act as a catalyst for the transition towards renewable energies and support the shared prosperity in the Mediterranean and Europe.
Arkab also underscored Algeria’s commitment to actively participate in international initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas and methane emissions.