BD, Algeria eye major energy deal and direct flights

Bangladesh and Algeria are moving closer to sealing a major cooperation agreement in the energy sector, a step that could deepen economic ties between the two nations, according to Algerian Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr Abdelouahab Saidani.

Dr Saidani said the two countries' joint working group on energy met for the first time last week and that a formal deal could be signed "in the next few days."

"We are discussing an important agreement between Algeria and Bangladesh in the energy sector," the ambassador said.

"The deal will allow Algeria, one of the world's largest oil producers, to export petroleum and energy products to Bangladesh and extend deep cooperation between the two countries."

He added that the forthcoming Joint Economic Commission would also explore new areas of collaboration in commerce, agriculture, and industry.

"Algeria has already submitted several draft agreements showing its strong will to deepen bilateral cooperation," he said.

Bangladesh currently exports readymade garments to Algeria while importing fertiliser, dates, electronic equipment, and dry fruits. Dr Saidani believes expanding trade and investment could create a "win-win situation" for both nations.

Algeria's largest energy conglomerate, he revealed, is considering investment in Bangladesh's energy exploration projects.

"We hope that in the future many more Algerian companies will come here to do business," he said, noting growing Algerian interest in Bangladesh's pharmaceuticals and agriculture sectors.

The ambassador also said the two countries are exploring collaboration in jute and shipbuilding.

"Algeria continues to import huge quantities of jute-based products from Bangladesh," he said, adding that a Bangladeshi shipbuilding company is in talks with Algerian partners for a joint venture.

He pointed to the formation of the Bangladesh-Algeria Business Forum earlier this year as a key milestone in boosting bilateral economic relations.

"At least five business delegations have visited Algeria this year," he said. "These visits have opened doors for cooperation in healthcare and other sectors."

Direct air connectivity between Dhaka and Algiers is also on the horizon. "Our civil aviation authorities are now in talks to start direct flights, and we hope for a positive result very soon," Dr Saidani said.

The Algerian Embassy in Dhaka will mark Algeria's National Day on Saturday, commemorating the start of the eight-year-long liberation war against colonial rule.

"At least one million Algerians sacrificed their lives during this glorious struggle," the ambassador said.

"Our national day symbolises the beginning of our fight for freedom, which inspired many other colonies around the world."

Reflecting on Algeria's present trajectory, Dr Saidani said his country has launched a vigorous drive to ensure democracy, human rights, and good governance. "For long we were under autocracy and misrule, but now people are free to build their own future," he said.

Having served in Bangladesh for over a year, the seasoned diplomat said he feels "quite at home." "I am overwhelmed by the hospitality and love of the Bangladeshi people," he added.