Berlin: In a significant diplomatic move, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune embarked on his inaugural official visit to Germany since his election in 2019. During the two-day visit, Tebboune and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz released a joint statement highlighting their commitment to deepen energy cooperation, emphasizing the “quality of cooperation” between Algeria and Germany.
According to Deutsche Welle, the leaders stressed the importance of Algeria as a key partner for Europe’s energy security. The focus is on expanding natural gas supplies and renewable energy collaboration, with long-term plans to establish a southern hydrogen corridor from North Africa to Germany. Algeria, which boasts Africa’s second-largest proven natural gas reserves, delivered its first shipment of liquefied natural gas (LNG) directly to Germany’s Wilhelmshaven 1 floating LNG import terminal on July 2. A direct pipeline to Germany could further reduce transportation costs, bypassing the need for LNG shipping and regasifi
cation.
Alice Gower, director of geopolitics and security at the London-based consulting firm Azure Strategy, emphasized Algeria’s growing energy significance amid geopolitical tensions. The ongoing conflict in Iran and disruptions in oil exports via the Strait of Hormuz have elevated Algeria’s role in providing supply diversification for Europe. Hafed Al-Ghwell, director of the North Africa, Mediterranean, and Sahel program at the Stimson Center, echoed this sentiment, noting Algeria’s political will to capitalize on its strategic position as a major gas producer.
Beyond energy, Algeria’s strategic value to Europe encompasses counterterrorism, migration, and Mediterranean stability, as indicated by Gower. The country has long cooperated with European nations on migration management and holds a unique diplomatic position, maintaining relations with various global powers, including the United States, Iran, China, and Russia. Moreover, President Tebboune is keen on enhancing African cooperation, positioning A
lgeria as a bridge between North Africa, the Sahel, and the broader continent.
However, Algeria faces pressure due to its stance on the disputed Western Sahara territory. While supporting the Polisario Front’s independence movement, Algeria finds itself increasingly isolated after the United States recognized Morocco’s sovereignty over the region in 2020, with several countries following suit. Algeria’s regional influence is also challenged by Morocco’s growing initiatives, as noted in a March analysis by the Institute for Security Studies.
Domestically, Algeria grapples with political and economic challenges, including high youth unemployment and ongoing restrictions on civic freedoms. Following the Hirak pro-democracy protests in 2019, calls for political openness remain largely unmet. The Bertelsmann Transformation Index and Freedom House reports suggest a reversion to pre-Arab Spring conditions, with continued prosecution of journalists and activists.
Despite these challenges, Gower suggests Algeria’s
expanding geopolitical relevance allows it to pursue its domestic agenda with less external interference. The country’s ability to leverage its stability and attract foreign private sector investment could help address internal dynamics, including job creation for its youth.