BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- SONATRACH, the leading oil and gas group in Algeria, and the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC) have taken a significant step towards enhancing technical cooperation in the energy sector. The CEO of SONATRACH, Toufik Hakkar, and the Secretary General of OAPEC, Jamal Essa AL LOUGHANI, presided over the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Algerian Institute of Petroleum (IAP) and OPAEP. This MoU marks a commitment to intensify collaboration in training, workshops, and conferences for the benefit of member countries of OPAEP.
The MoU, signed at the General Management level of SONATRACH, solidifies the role of the Algerian Institute of Petroleum as a key training institute among member countries. This recognition follows the presentation of the institute’s activities and its impressive 58-year experience in the field during the Ninth Coordination Meeting of Directors of Petroleum Training Institutes held in September 2021.
Under this agreement, the Algerian Institute of Petroleum will host training sessions for learners from OAPEC member countries. In 2022, the institute successfully organized training sessions that benefited over 100 individuals. This initiative demonstrates SONATRACH’s commitment to sharing its expertise and fostering the development of human resources within the energy sector among Arab nations.
In addition to the signing ceremony, a prize-giving ceremony was held to honor the winners of the 2020 scientific competition initiated by OAPEC. The competition aimed to promote scientific research and innovation, encouraging advancements in the energy sector. This recognition further highlights the commitment of OAPEC and its member countries to fostering scientific excellence and technological advancements in the field of petroleum.
The collaboration between SONATRACH, IAP, and OAPEC signifies the importance of knowledge sharing and technical cooperation in the petroleum industry. By facilitating training programs, workshops, and conferences, the MoU aims to strengthen the capabilities of member countries, promoting sustainable growth and development in the energy sector.
Algeria, as a leading player in the global energy market, has established itself as a key contributor to the development of petroleum-related knowledge and expertise. With the Algerian Institute of Petroleum at the forefront, the country continues to demonstrate its commitment to advancing the capabilities of professionals in the industry, not only within Algeria but also among Arab nations.
The signing of the MoU between SONATRACH/IAP and OAPEC represents a significant milestone in promoting collaboration and knowledge exchange in the energy sector. As member countries benefit from enhanced technical training and networking opportunities, the region as a whole stands to gain from increased expertise and innovation. This cooperation sets a positive precedent for future initiatives aimed at strengthening the energy industry and promoting sustainable development among Arab nations.
