ALGIERS– The Sonatrach Group announced that the contract signed with the Slovenian company Geoplin for the delivery of natural gas to Slovenia via the gas pipeline linking Algeria and Italy represents “a further step toward strengthening energy ties between Algeria and Slovenia.”

In a statement, the state-owned group noted that the natural gas sales and purchase agreement, signed on Tuesday in the Slovenian capital, Ljubljana, under the supervision of the President of the Republic, Abdelmadjid Tebboune, and the Prime Minister of Slovenia, Robert Golob, reflects “the commitment of both parties to deepen their relations and explore new partnership opportunities in the future.”

Under this contract, “Sonatrach will reinforce its position in the Slovenian market while addressing the growing demand for natural gas in the European market,” the statement added.

“This partnership will not only strengthen Algeria’s presence on the international energy scene but also underscores its dedication to expanding bilateral economic cooperation and elevating it to new heights,” the Sonatrach press release further stated.

The contract was signed during President Tebboune’s state visit to the Republic of Slovenia, at the invitation of his Slovenian counterpart, Natasa Pirc Musar.