Arkab reçoit le chercheur et scientifique algérien Pr Karim Zaghib
Title: Enhancing Algeria’s Lithium Sector for a Sustainable Energy Transition
On a recent Sunday in Algiers, Minister of State and Minister of Energy, Mines, and Renewable Energies, Mohamed Arkab, met with Pr. Karim Zaghib, an esteemed Algerian researcher. The purpose of this meeting was to discuss ongoing consultations regarding the development of the lithium industry in Algeria. Lithium is seen as a strategic element for supporting Algeria’s energy transition, focusing on harnessing and valuing the nation’s mineral resources locally.
The meeting, attended by key figures such as the Secretary of State for Mines, Karima Tafer; Secretary of State for Renewable Energies, Noureddine Yassaâ; and Belkacem Soltani, CEO of Sonarem Group, aimed to evaluate the advancement of consultations related to the lithium sector. This sector is positioned as a cornerstone of a comprehensive vision for an energy transition built on national mineral resources and their local industrialization.
This marked the second meeting between Arkab and Zaghib, aimed at enhancing scientific and technical collaboration to support Algeria’s energy transition. A significant focus was on establishing a coordination structure for the working group, a decision made during their previous meeting. This structure will enable efficient monitoring and facilitate the implementation of projects related to lithium development.
Minister Arkab emphasized the importance of increasing the pace of work and identifying priority projects, particularly those focused on lithium and other critical minerals. He stressed the need for developing an integrated local production chain that encompasses exploration, processing, manufacturing, and training. This approach aims to create added value and sustainable job opportunities in Algeria’s growing energy sector.
Participants agreed to develop a detailed action plan that outlines the essential steps for advancing the lithium sector. This plan will identify priority projects and ensure the optimal utilization of Algeria’s rich mineral resources. Additionally, there will be a focus on creating training programs to enhance the qualifications of the national workforce in this new industrial domain.
Pr. Zaghib reaffirmed his commitment to support Algeria’s ambitious energy transition, utilizing his extensive scientific and technical expertise in energy storage, lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery development, photovoltaic cell manufacturing, and the valorization of strategic minerals. He commended Algeria’s strong political will to establish an energy transition grounded in solid scientific and technological foundations.
In summary, the discussions between Minister Arkab and Pr. Zaghib underscore a concerted effort to develop Algeria’s lithium industry as part of a broader strategy for a sustainable energy transition. The emphasis on local resource utilization, training, and scientific collaboration highlights the government’s commitment to building a resilient and self-sufficient energy future. Through coordinated actions and strategic planning, Algeria aims to solidify its role in the energy landscape while ensuring economic growth and environmental sustainability.
