Algerian Energy and Mining Minister Chakib Khelil and Jordanian Energy Minister Mohamed Bataina signed on Thursday the minutes of the Algerian-Jordanian talks, held from December 30, 2001 to January 1st, 2002, and intended to strengthen their cooperation in the energy field. The Algerian news agency reported that both parties agreed to carry out geological studies for gas and oil production in the Middle East region, and to exchange data among Arab countries
The two countries discussed renewal of the study in El Azrak basin, east of Jordan, the development of Erricha gas deposit, joint cooperation for oil exploration along the Jordanian-Iraqi border and inside Iraqi territory, as well as the specialized training of personnel in Algeria, were also examined by experts from both countries.
Jordan will examine an Algerian offer to provide 60,000 tons of Liquified Natural Gas per year, and Jordanian experts will be sent to Algeria to take advantage of Algeria’s experience in this field. Algeria may participate in carrying out full surveys establishing Jordan’s LNG needs and usage, and the modernization of the Jordanian refining facilities at Zarka.
In electrical power cooperation, the Algerian delegation expressed its interest for the participation of the Algerian energy company in projects related to the production of electrical power in Jordan, which will be entrusted to an international consortium. Both parties also discussed projects related to the inter-connection of Arab and European electrical power networks and agreed to join forces to develop the latter by means of the "hexagonal" network and that of the Arab Maghreb for all interested countries. (www.albawaba.com)
