In a historic step for transcontinental energy integration, the Executive Secretary of the Latin American and Caribbean Energy Organization (OLACDE), Andrés Rebolledo Smitmans, and the Minister of State for Hydrocarbons and Mines of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, Mohamed Arkab, today signed a strategic Roadmap that redefines cooperation between North Africa and Latin America and the Caribbean.
This fundamental milestone is part of the official visit that OLACDE is carrying out in Algiers, where one of the most important events was the audience granted by the President of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, Abdelmadjid Tebboune, to the Organization’s Executive Secretary. This meeting with Algeria’s highest authority underscores the political and strategic importance both parties place on energy integration.
During this audience, the importance of the Meeting of Ministers as the governing body that defines the organization’s institutional policies was highlighted, as was the technical support of the Board of Experts, elements that ensure this alliance translates into robust work plans and tangible benefits for Member Countries.
A quarter century of energy fellowship
This meeting not only looks to the future, but also honors a long-standing relationship. During the meetings in Algiers, both parties celebrated the strength of a bond that has grown uninterrupted since Algeria began its accession process to OLACDE on July 9, 2001, later attaining Permanent Observer status in 2018.
This 25-year trajectory positions Algeria as a fundamental partner and a technical bridge between the two regions, reaffirming its commitment to the sustainable development and integration goals promoted by OLACDE.
Signing of the Roadmap: From dialogue to technical action
The signing of the Roadmap represents the establishment of a practical and ambitious framework to raise cooperation to unprecedented levels. The document prioritizes the execution of joint projects in areas where Algerian expertise is a global benchmark:
Hydrocarbons industry: Strengthening of technological partnerships in exploration, production, and resource valuation.
Value chain development: Joint investments to boost the oil and gas industry.
Human talent and innovation: Intensive programs for technical training, technology transfer, and collaboration between research centers for the development of new energy networks.
Market stability and a just transition
Within the framework of the current global situation, Minister Arkab and Secretary Rebolledo discussed the volatility of the oil and gas markets. They agreed on the urgency of strengthening coordination among producing countries to guarantee supply security and international stability.
“Cooperation with OLACDE must be based on balanced approaches that respect the sovereignty of developing countries. We advocate for a just and sustainable energy transition that does not compromise national energy security,” emphasized Minister Arkab.
South-South cooperation: A common front
Andrés Rebolledo, who also held meetings with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Syed Ahmed Ataf, highlighted Algeria’s role as a reliable partner.
“Algeria’s vast technical experience, accumulated since 2001, is an invaluable asset for our region. This Roadmap is not just a document, it is a South-South Cooperation tool to defend our strategic interests in the global energy conversation,” said Rebolledo.
The highest authorities of the Algerian sector were present at the ceremony: the President of SONATRACH, Rachid Hachichi; the President of the National Agency for the Valorization of Hydrocarbon Resources (ALNAFT), Samir Boukhali; and the President of the Hydrocarbons Regulatory Authority (ARH), Amine Melaika.
About OLACDE:
The Latin American and Caribbean Energy Organization is the intergovernmental body for consultation and technical cooperation, whose objective is to guarantee the integration and energy security of the region. Algeria, with which it has maintained a close relationship since 2001, is one of its greatest strategic allies outside the American continent.
For more information contact:
Diana Soriano, Head of Communications
diana.soriano@olacde.org
