Algerian Tanker “In Ecker” Sets Sail with 30,000 Tonnes of Fuel for Lebanon: A Vital Energy Lifeline Amidst Crisis

✏️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | August 22nd, 2024 — The Algerian oil tanker In Ecker departed from the port of Skikda on Thursday morning, carrying 30,000 tonnes of fuel destined for Lebanon. This crucial shipment is in response to the directive of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who ordered the immediate provision of fuel to power Lebanon’s struggling electricity grid, signaling Algeria’s strong commitment to supporting Lebanon during its severe energy crisis.

The loading of the fuel aboard the In Ecker, a vessel owned by HYPROC Shipping Company—a subsidiary of Algeria’s state energy giant Sonatrach—began late Tuesday evening at the Skikda oil terminal. According to Hocine Belabed, head of the “East” Port Unit responsible for commercialization at Sonatrach-Skikda, the complex loading operation took approximately 18 hours to complete, finishing on Wednesday afternoon. Following the loading, several additional hours were required to finalize essential commercial and safety protocols before the vessel could embark on its voyage to Lebanon.

Belabed emphasized that the successful completion of this operation was a collaborative effort, involving multiple divisions within Sonatrach, including the Skikda refinery, the port unit, and the Marine hydrocarbon terminal operating company (STH). This coordination ensured that all technical, logistical, and safety measures were meticulously executed, allowing the tanker to depart without delay.

Abdelhamid Merabet, director of the Skikda refinery, highlighted the significance of the shipment, noting that the fuel was produced at the refinery, which boasts an annual production capacity of 16.5 million tonnes. He added that the fuel delivery to Lebanon is part of a broader strategy to leverage Algeria’s energy resources in support of its allies, underscoring the Skikda refinery’s role as a critical hub for regional energy supply.

This initiative, mandated by President Tebboune, demonstrates Algeria’s solidarity with Lebanon, a nation facing severe energy shortages that have crippled its power infrastructure. Tebboune’s swift decision to provide the necessary fuel reflects Algeria’s broader policy of fostering deep fraternal and diplomatic relations with Lebanon, rooted in mutual respect and a shared commitment to stability in the region.

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