Algeria’s Minister of Hydrocarbons, Mohamed Arkab, recently engaged in a crucial videoconference with Hamadou Tini, the Minister of Petroleum for the Republic of Niger. The discussions centered on expanding bilateral cooperation within the vital hydrocarbons sector.

This significant meeting, attended by senior officials from both nations’ ministries, provided an opportunity to review Sonatrach’s latest operations in the Republic of Niger. Particular attention was given to activities at the Kafra oil field block. These efforts follow the signing of the Algerian-Nigerien memorandum of understanding on hydrocarbons, which took place on March 24, 2026, during the second session of the Algerian-Nigerien Joint Cooperation Commission. That broader commission was co-chaired by Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb of Algeria and his Nigerien counterpart, Ali Lamine Zeine.

Furthermore, the talks facilitated an assessment of the progress in developing and exploring the Kafra block. Officials also monitored the coordination between Sonatrach, through its subsidiary Sonatrach International Production and Exploration Corporation (SIPEX), and the Nigerien Petroleum Company (SONIDEP).

During the session, both delegations underscored the imperative of integrating Nigerien enterprises and firms into energy projects. This approach aims to foster local content development and bolster economic growth across Niger.

The ministers also explored avenues to strengthen collaboration in critical areas such as training, technology transfer, and the exchange of expertise. Plans include organizing specialized training programs for executives and technicians and forging partnerships between national companies from both countries, including Sonatrach, SONIDEP, and Naftal. These partnerships are particularly targeted at enhancing capabilities in transport, storage, distribution, and securing petroleum product supply chains.

Concluding their discussions, the two ministers reaffirmed their shared resolve to continue reinforcing bilateral cooperation in the hydrocarbons sector and to ensure the successful implementation of agreed-upon projects. Such initiatives are pivotal for driving economic development and promoting energy integration between the two nations.