Algeria Roundup: Surge in Chinese investments, diplomatic tensions with France escalate, Russia military cooperation
Sonatrach and Occidental Petroleum Sign Hydrocarbon Cooperation MOUs
Algeria's state energy company Sonatrach has entered into two memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with U.S. shale company Occidental Petroleum to enhance cooperation in hydrocarbon exploration and production. Club of Mozambique reports that these agreements were formalised during the US-Algeria Energy Forum 2025.
Release of Moroccan migrants by Algeria after detention period
Algerian authorities have released 23 young Moroccan men detained for over six weeks due to irregular migration attempts. This release occurred at the Zouj Beghal border centre, facilitated by the Moroccan Association for Assisting Migrants in Difficult Situations. According to Yabiladi, many young Moroccans remain under administrative detention, awaiting deportation.
Algeria-Russia military cooperation discussions
High-level officials from Algeria and Russia recently convened to discuss military cooperation, specifically within the Joint Committee on Military-Technical Cooperation framework. As reported by MEMO, the meeting, hosted by the Algerian Ministry of Defence, aimed to strengthen parliamentary relations between the two countries and mark their historical partnership.
Surge in Chinese investments in Algeria
Chinese investments in Algeria have surged, now estimated at nearly $4.5 billion across 42 projects primarily in the industrial sector. Zawya says this includes significant energy and vehicle production investments, such as Great Wall Motors' recent announcement to establish a car assembly plant in Algeria.
France and Algeria diplomatic tensions escalate
Following Algeria's decision to expel 12 French consular staff members, France responded by expelling 12 agents from the Algerian diplomatic network in France and recalling its ambassador to Algiers for consultations. This situation stems from allegations surrounding the arrest of an Algerian consular agent connected to the kidnapping of an opposition activist, WION reports.
