The sixth High-Level Political Dialogue on Energy between the European Union and Algeria was held in Algiers under the co-chairmanship of Mohamed Arkab, Minister of State and Minister of Hydrocarbons and Mines, Mourad Adjal, Minister of Energy and Renewable Energies, and Dan Jørgensen, European Commissioner for Energy and Housing.
The meeting forms part of the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding on the strategic energy partnership signed in 2013, aimed at strengthening bilateral energy cooperation while maintaining a balanced framework of mutual interests.
Strategic Partnership Amid Global Energy Transition
Ahead of the formal dialogue, bilateral discussions were held between the Algerian ministers and the EU Commissioner to explore avenues for reinforcing cooperation. Both sides reaffirmed the strategic importance of the partnership at a time when global energy markets face volatility and the energy transition is accelerating.
The sixth dialogue reviewed progress achieved under sectoral working groups and two expert groups on natural gas and electricity, renewable energy, hydrogen, and energy efficiency, established in 2015. The groups presented updates on ongoing collaboration and technical cooperation.
Natural Gas and Methane Reduction in Focus
Both parties acknowledged Algeria’s role as a reliable and sustainable supplier of natural gas to Europe, especially in the current geopolitical and energy security context. Algeria remains a key supplier to the EU, and both sides expressed interest in increasing European investment in Algeria’s hydrocarbons sector, particularly in natural gas development.
Discussions also focused on reducing fugitive methane emissions and coordinating implementation of the EU Methane Regulation to ensure continued access for Algerian gas exports to the European market. The EU welcomed Algeria’s commitment to methane mitigation, highlighting its importance for the competitiveness and long-term sustainability of gas exports.
Advancing Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Cooperation
The dialogue addressed progress in renewable energy and green hydrogen strategies on both sides. The SoutH2 Corridor project, aimed at establishing a hydrogen transport link between Algeria and Europe, was discussed as a strategic initiative to position Algeria as a regional supplier of renewable electricity and hydrogen.
Algeria’s competitive advantages — including its natural resources, skilled workforce, and established energy infrastructure — were recognised as key enablers for developing a low-carbon ecosystem. However, both sides noted challenges in scaling hydrogen markets, including regulatory clarity, investment mobilisation, market transparency, and capacity building to generate local employment and economic value.
Strengthening Electricity Interconnections and Infrastructure
Energy infrastructure development emerged as a priority, particularly electricity interconnections between Algeria and the EU. Both sides agreed to enhance cooperation on regulatory frameworks and investment facilitation to advance cross-border electricity links.
TaqatHy+ Programme to Support Energy Transition
The Energy Partnership will continue under the TaqatHy+ technical cooperation programme, launched in April 2025 and co-financed by the EU (€15 million) and Germany (€13 million), and implemented by GIZ. The programme supports renewable energy deployment, grid integration, hydrogen economy development, energy efficiency in buildings and public enterprises, and methane emission reduction.
Since the previous ministerial meeting in October 2023, three expert group sessions and seminars on the green hydrogen economy and methane emission reduction have been conducted, reinforcing technical collaboration under the partnership framework.
Commitment to Long-Term Energy Cooperation
Concluding the meeting, both parties expressed satisfaction with the progress achieved and reaffirmed their commitment to consolidating cooperation under the High-Level Energy Dialogue. The partnership continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening energy security, supporting the energy transition, and fostering sustainable economic development for both sides.
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