Energy file tops talks between German Chancellor and Algerian President
Berlin, July 16 (KUNA) -- Energy topped the agenda of talks held by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune in the German capital, Berlin, on Thursday. The two sides stated during a joint press conference that the discussions focused on the future of German-Algerian relations, particularly in the fields of energy, economy, raw materials, and investments. Merz said that Germany views Algeria as a “key partner” in energy security, as Berlin works to diversify its supply sources and reduce reliance on a single energy source. He added that he discussed with the Algerian president opportunities to expand cooperation in natural gas imports, as well as future energy projects, foremost among them green hydrogen. For his part, President Tebboune emphasized the importance of developing economic partnership with Germany, stressing that “Algeria does not want its relations with Europe to be limited to the export of fossil fuels alone, but seeks to establish industrial and technological cooperation encompassing renewable energy and green hydrogen.” Tebboune also expressed his country’s desire to elevate relations with Berlin to the level of a strategic partnership that goes beyond traditional energy cooperation. Regarding European energy security, Tebboune affirmed Algeria’s readiness to contribute to this sector, whether in natural gas or in clean energy and green hydrogen projects. The meeting also addressed investment and cooperation opportunities in raw materials, with Merz noting that Germany sees strengthening partnerships with countries like Algeria as part of a strategy aimed at securing the needs of the German industrial sector and reducing risks associated with dependence on specific energy sources. It is worth noting that President Tebboune’s visit to Berlin comes amid growing German interest in Algeria’s energy capabilities, particularly given its large gas reserves, its geographic proximity to Europe, and future projects to transport green hydrogen from North Africa to the European continent. (End) A.N.J./A.B.K.
