Algeria and Austria discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation and expanding partnership in hydrocarbons

Algiers, Sept 30 (KUNA) -- Algerian Minister of Energy and Mines Mohamed Arkab held talks today with Austrian Federal Minister for Economic Affairs, Energy and Tourism, Wolfgang Hatzenbichler, to explore ways to enhance bilateral cooperation and broaden the scope of partnership between the two countries, particularly in the energy sector.

In a statement, the Algerian Ministry of Energy and Mines said that the two ministers, during their discussions in Algiers, reaffirmed the importance of relations between their countries, which are based on mutual respect, dialogue, and understanding, as well as a shared commitment to further strengthen cooperation and develop a balanced and sustainable partnership that serves the common interests of both nations.

The ministry clarified that the two sides discussed opportunities to enhance cooperation in the energy sector, considered a key pillar of economic relations between the two countries, particularly in the fields of research, exploration, field development, oil and gas services, maintenance, engineering, technology and expertise transfer, as well as encouraging Algerian and Austrian enterprises to establish joint partnerships, projects, and investments with added value.

The statement added that the talks also addressed ways to develop cooperation in the natural gas sector, including production, transportation, and storage, alongside areas related to the marketing, distribution, and storage of oil and gas products, and the potential to expand trade in crude oil, natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and refined products.

According to the statement, the two ministers reviewed cooperation opportunities in areas linked to reducing emissions and lowering the carbon footprint, as well as developing and utilizing gas more efficiently, training, applied research, capacity building, enhancing local manufacturing, strengthening national capabilities, and creating added value in Algeria. (End) M.R. / A.S.