Algeria is reigniting its energy cooperation with Niger, focusing on the revival of exploration activities in the Kafra oil block. On Wednesday, August 7, 2024, Algerian Minister of Energy Mohamed Arkab visited Niger and met with his counterpart, Niger's Minister of Energy, Mahman Moustafa Barké,

During their meeting, Minister Arkab reaffirmed Algeria's commitment to supporting Niger in developing its petroleum industry. He emphasized Algeria's readiness to transfer expertise through the state-owned energy giant Sonatrach, which is eager to strengthen its operations in Niger. This includes fulfilling contractual obligations related to the exploitation and production sharing of the Kafra oil field, where Sonatrach has been active since signing a contract renewal in February 2022.

Additionally, the two ministers discussed the Algerian-Niger-Nigeria Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline Project (TSGP), a strategic initiative aimed at bolstering energy cooperation in the region. They agreed to continue coordination meetings to advance the project, which is seen as crucial for the social and economic development of the three participating countries. The TSGP is particularly significant given the global energy landscape, where demand for natural gas has surged, especially in Europe, due to the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian conflict.

The renewed focus on the Kafra oil block and the TSGP underscores Algeria's strategic approach to leveraging economic cooperation to maintain regional stability and enhance its influence in the Sahel region.

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