Algeria Steps Up as Gas Summit Convenes Amid European Shift

ALGIERS – Algeria is basking in the spotlight as it hosts a three-day summit of leaders from gas-producing nations. The gathering comes at a pivotal moment, with Europe actively seeking alternatives to Russian energy supplies.

Thirteen nations, including Russia, Iran, Qatar, and Venezuela, have sent representatives to Algiers for the summit. The agenda focuses on coordinating investments, strengthening ties with gas-purchasing countries, and boosting production capacity. This comes amidst a backdrop of declining demand for oil and gas overall, coupled with rising competition from renewable energy sources.

Algeria, strategically positioned in North Africa, sees an opportunity to solidify its role as a reliable and secure energy supplier. President Abdelmajid Tebboune, in a message on the summit’s website, emphasized the growing importance of natural gas as a “crucial energy source for socio-economic development,” while also touting it as a “clean and environmentally friendly alternative.”

This focus on gas aligns perfectly with Europe’s current goals. Notably, Algeria has emerged as the continent’s second-largest pipeline supplier of the fuel, following closely behind Norway. It holds the top supplier position for Spain and Italy, with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni having visited Algeria last year to solidify energy partnerships. Further solidifying its position, Algeria’s state-owned energy company, Sonatrach, recently inked a deal to supply natural gas to Germany’s VNG.

The summit serves as a platform for Algeria to capitalize on this critical moment. By showcasing its production capacity and commitment to reliable gas supplies, Algeria aims to become a key player in Europe’s efforts to diversify its energy sources and move away from dependence on Russia.pen_sparktunesharemore_vert