Türkiye, Algeria discuss expanding LNG partnership, energy cooperation

Türkiye plans to expand its energy cooperation with Algeria, including increased imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG), joint hydrocarbon exploration projects, and potential fuel exports to Europe, Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar said.

Speaking to Turkish broadcaster TRT Haber, Bayraktar said Ankara and Algiers are discussing an expansion of their current gas supply agreement, which provides Türkiye with 4.4 billion cubic metres of natural gas annually. According to the minister, the volume could rise to between 6 billion and 6.5 billion cubic metres per year, while the contract could also be extended for an additional five to 10 years.

Bayraktar said negotiations on renewing the agreement are ongoing and a deal could be reached later this year.

The two countries are also considering joint oil and gas exploration projects in offshore areas involving Türkiye’s state energy company TPAO and Algeria’s national energy company Sonatrach. The cooperation could include the use of Turkish technical and drilling vessels.

In addition, Ankara and Algiers are exploring the possibility of transporting Algerian LNG to Southeast European markets through Türkiye. Under the proposal, the gas would be regasified at Turkish LNG terminals before being delivered onward, including via Bulgaria.

Bayraktar said the expanding partnership reflects both countries’ interest in strengthening long-term energy cooperation and developing regional energy projects amid growing European demand for diversified gas supplies.

By Sabina Mammadli