Algiers Says it Is Facing Up to Developments in International Gas Markets with Equanimity

摘要

In an interview with the Algerian newspaper El Moudjahid (see also Top of the News), the Minister of Energy and Mines, Mr. Youcef Yousfi, maintained that Algeria was "facing up to developments in the gas markets with equanimity, especially its natural market, which is the European market." The Minister pointed out that the recession that has overtaken this part of the world was having a negative impact on the demand for gas (on that subject, see our interview with the Chief Economist of CEDIGAZ in AOG, 16 June, 2013) and that all of Europe's main suppliers, not just Algeria, were suffering the consequences. But "on the strength of its resources, its comparative advantages and its experience", Algeria had no reason to be unduly alarmed, explained Mr. Yousfi in substance. Mr. Yousfi reiterated that his country intended to "consolidate its positions" on the European market. To achieve that goal, he said, Algeria had certain advantages, such as the expansion of its capacity through substantial investments, its reputation as a reliable supplier for more than half a century, the professionalism of Sonatrach, and the national oil company's resilience and ability to adapt.