Algeria and Niger have announced the launch of a long-awaited trans-Saharan gas pipeline project through Nigerien territory, marking a dramatic diplomatic turnaround after months of frigid relations between the two nations. Algerian President Tebboune confirmed the development during a joint press conference with Nigerien leader Abdourahamane Tchiani, stating that state energy giant Sonatrach will lead construction, set to begin after Ramadan. The diplomatic rift had begun last April when Niger joined Mali and Burkina Faso in recalling ambassadors after Algeria allegedly shot down a Malian drone that violated its airspace. Beyond the pipeline, both nations agreed to strengthen cooperation across security, military education, and vocational training, with Tebboune declaring an end to what he described as an “abnormal period of coldness” between two historically brotherly peoples.
Anadolu Ajansi
