Arkab évoque à Addis-Abeba avec le ministre éthiopien du Commerce et de l’Intégration régionale le renforcement du partenariat économique
Strengthening Economic Ties Between Algeria and Ethiopia: A Collaborative Approach
On Monday, Algerian Energy, Mines, and Renewable Energies Minister, Mohamed Arkab, held discussions in Addis Ababa with Ethiopia’s Minister of Trade and Regional Integration, Kassahun Gofe. The meeting explored opportunities to enhance commercial cooperation between Algeria and Ethiopia across various sectors, particularly in energy, mining, and renewable resources, as stated in a ministry release.
This meeting was part of Arkab’s working visit to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and included key stakeholders like Rachid Hachichi, CEO of Sonatrach, and Mourad Adjal, CEO of Sonelgaz, along with senior officials from the Algerian ministry and the two mentioned companies.
Throughout the discussions, Minister Arkab outlined Algeria’s significant advancements in various sectors, particularly in hydrocarbon management, which encompasses research, exploration, extraction, and transportation. He emphasized Algeria’s burgeoning industrial sector, which extends to petrochemicals, petroleum products, and training initiatives. The dialogue also included details on electricity production, transport, and distribution, as well as the transformation of mineral resources, especially in fertilizer production.
Notably, Arkab indicated Algeria’s readiness to supply Ethiopia with fertilizers, highlighting a crucial agricultural need for urea (46% concentration), approximating two million tons annually for Ethiopian agricultural requirements. This initiative signifies Algeria’s commitment to bolstering agricultural productivity in Ethiopia through effective resource sharing.
The minister further elaborated on Algeria’s progressive steps toward African economic integration. He underscored the ongoing efforts in diversifying trade and transport networks through pivotal projects like the Tindouf-Zouerate route and expanding commercial exchanges via free trade zones. Furthermore, he mentioned the establishment of Algerian commercial banks across Africa as a means to facilitate economic engagement.
Emphasizing the critical role of African cooperation, Arkab advocated for collaborative projects that enhance investments in the oil and gas sectors. He posited that such cooperation would aid in achieving energy self-sufficiency and security of supply across African nations, fulfilling the continent’s strategic energy objectives.
For his part, Minister Kassahun Gofe praised Algeria’s pivotal role in regional integration across Africa, expressing Ethiopia’s strong interest in expanding its economic partnership with Algeria. He highlighted potential collaborations in the energy, agriculture, and trade sectors, signaling a mutual interest in a strategic alliance.
Gofe also expressed Ethiopia’s eagerness to leverage Algerian expertise, particularly in establishing regulatory frameworks and legal structures influencing crude oil trade and energy product marketing. Such collaboration could lead to improved governance in Ethiopia’s energy sector, benefiting from Algeria’s experience and regulatory competence.
The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing to sustain their discussions, aiming to implement concrete mechanisms that would facilitate trade exchanges and investments. The mutual aim is to enhance economic integration between Algeria and Ethiopia, fostering a supportive environment for bilateral growth.
This collaborative effort highlights Algeria’s proactive approach to forging strategic partnerships in Africa, aligning with regional aspirations for economic robustness and energy sustainability. By focusing on fostering cooperation in energy and agricultural sectors, both nations aim to address pressing needs while promoting overall economic growth and development.
In summary, the dialogue between Algerian and Ethiopian officials embodies a significant step toward strengthening economic ties through collaborative ventures. This initiative not only enhances bilateral relations but also serves as a model for other African nations aiming for integrated economic strategies in the pursuit of continental development goals.
