Le marché mondial du gaz naturel au centre de discussions entre Arkab et Hamel
On Thursday, Algerian Energy Minister Mohamed Arkab met with Mohamed Hamel, Secretary General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), to discuss the global natural gas market and the sector’s challenges. This meeting, held at the ministry’s headquarters, also involved Secretary of State Noureddine Yassaâ and senior ministry officials.
The discussions mainly focused on the current state of the global natural gas market, the challenges faced by the sector, and ways to enhance cooperation among GECF member countries, especially following the 7th Summit of Heads of State and Government held in Algiers in March 2024, which resulted in the « Algiers Declaration. »
Both parties acknowledged the strategic importance of natural gas as a crucial energy source amid a global transition toward cleaner energy. They underscored the need for sustainable investment to ensure supply security and meet the increasing demand for gas. There was also a strong emphasis on improving cooperation in research and development, particularly regarding technological innovations that enhance production and transportation efficiency while minimizing the carbon footprint of the energy sector. This aligns with international sustainable development goals.
The establishment of the Gas Research Institute (GRI) by the GECF, officially inaugurated in Algeria, was highlighted during the meeting. Minister Arkab affirmed Algeria’s commitment to enhancing regional and international cooperation in the natural gas sector, especially with African nations, while stressing the importance of infrastructure projects for efficient gas transportation, particularly concerning significant energy projects between producing and consuming countries.
In his remarks, the Secretary General of the GECF reviewed the global gas market’s evolution and discussed the investment challenges necessary to meet future demand, estimated at nearly $11 trillion up to 2050. He emphasized the critical role that member countries play in securing global gas supplies.
This meeting not only reflects Algeria’s strategic outlook on its role in the global energy landscape but also indicates the growing necessity for collaborative efforts amid increasing global energy demands and responsibilities to address climate change through cleaner energy sources. As countries transition towards renewable energy, natural gas remains a vital component, facilitating this transition while providing a more immediate supply solution. Enhanced cooperation among GECF members is crucial to address the investment needs, technological advancements, and infrastructure development required to ensure gas security and efficiency, helping to meet the energy needs of the future.
Overall, the discussions reinforced Algeria’s role in the GECF and its commitment to fostering stronger ties within the gas-exporting community, pivotal for navigating the complex landscape of global energy demands while striving for sustainable development goals. The outcomes from these discussions will likely shape future investments and collaborative projects that are essential for the success of the natural gas sector on a global scale.
