Dhaka keen to tap Algerian expertise in oil and gas exploration, technology transfer and capacity building
Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood has described the recently signed Bangladesh-Algeria energy cooperation agreement as a “historic milestone” in bilateral relations, highlighting opportunities for collaboration in oil and gas exploration, technology transfer and capacity building.
He said Bangladesh was keen to benefit from Algeria's extensive experience in the energy and mining sectors to strengthen its exploration capabilities and technical expertise.
The minister made the remarks as the chief guest at a reception marking the 72nd anniversary of Algeria's Liberation Revolution at a city hotel in Dhaka on Sunday night.
Ambassadors, high commissioners, diplomats, senior government officials, representatives of international organisations and members of the Algerian community attended the event.
The energy cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed during a high-level Bangladeshi ministerial delegation's visit to Algeria from October 20 to 22.
Mahmood expressed appreciation to the Algerian government for its hospitality and cooperation during the visit, saying the agreement had opened new avenues for expanding bilateral engagement in the energy sector.
Highlighting Algeria's extensive experience in oil, gas and mining, he expressed Bangladesh's interest in benefiting from Algerian expertise through technological cooperation, knowledge sharing and professional capacity development.
Beyond energy, the minister underscored the potential for expanding bilateral trade and investment, identifying textiles, industrial products, food processing, ceramics and light engineering as promising sectors for Algerian investors in Bangladesh.
He also encouraged Bangladeshi entrepreneurs to explore investment and business opportunities in Algeria, citing the North African country's strategic geographical location and economic potential.
Recalling the shared historical experiences of Bangladesh and Algeria in their respective struggles for independence, Mahmood stressed the need to translate political goodwill and historical solidarity into concrete economic partnerships.
Bangladesh and Algeria have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations, with the newly signed energy agreement expected to provide fresh momentum to cooperation in energy security, trade, investment and industrial development.
