AGP Executive Report

Energy & Infrastructure: SONATRACH has kicked off work on Algeria’s section of the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, linking the Niger border to Hassi R’Mel via Aoulef, with the wider project aimed at moving 20–30 billion cubic meters of gas annually to Europe. Regional Tech Links: Algeria and Tunisia are planning a joint submarine cable to Italy to boost data capacity and resilience. World Cup Build-Up (Lawrence/Kansas City): Algeria’s national team has arrived in Lawrence, Kansas, with hundreds of fans welcoming them, while the squad prepares for matches in Kansas City against Argentina and Austria; captain Riyad Mahrez says preparations are on track after the Netherlands friendly. Sports Spotlight: Algeria’s coach Vladimir Petkovic has extended his deal through at least July 2028. Public Debate: A viral social media video claims the Gara Djebilet iron mine project is far from the state-backed hype. Diplomacy & Culture: Algeria’s welcome for India’s ambassador in Laghouat featured the Baroud dance, highlighting ties in energy, defense, and trade.

World Cup Build-Up in Kansas City: Algeria’s national team has arrived in Kansas City and will base in Lawrence, training at Rock Chalk Park and staying at the DoubleTree by Hilton, with group matches at Arrowhead Stadium against Argentina (June 16) and Austria (June 27). Coach Locked In: The Algerian Football Federation extended Vladimir Petkovic’s contract through July 2028 after Algeria’s strong run, including a friendly win over the Netherlands and World Cup qualification. Captain’s Confidence: Riyad Mahrez says the squad is in good form after the Sidi Moussa camp and the Netherlands test, urging that “the competition will tell.” Trans-Saharan Energy Push: SONATRACH has broken ground on Algeria’s section of the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, linking Nigeria through Niger to Hassi R’Mel, aiming to move 20–30 billion cubic meters of gas annually. Diplomacy in Western Sahara: UN envoy Staffan de Mistura arrived in Tindouf camps for talks aimed at restarting negotiations and easing tensions in the region. Algiers Welcomes India: An Algerian city hosted Indian Ambassador Swati Vijay Kulkarni with a traditional Baroud dance, highlighting ties in energy, defense, and education.

World Cup Build-Up: Algeria’s national team has arrived in Kansas City, becoming the second squad to land in the metro ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026, with training set at Rock Chalk Park in Lawrence and matches at Kansas City Stadium against Argentina (June 16) and Austria (June 27). Coach in Focus: The Algerian Football Federation has extended Vladimir Petkovic’s contract through July 2028, rewarding a turnaround that returned Algeria to the World Cup after a 12-year absence. Captain’s Message: Riyad Mahrez says the team is in good form after preparations in Sidi Moussa and a key friendly test versus the Netherlands. Western Sahara Diplomacy: UN envoy Staffan de Mistura arrived in the Sahrawi refugee camps in Tindouf as part of efforts to relaunch dialogue and create conditions for renewed negotiations. Energy & Regional Links: Algeria has started work on its section of the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, aimed at delivering up to 30 billion cubic meters of gas annually to Europe via Nigeria and Niger. Sports Beyond Football: Pavel Dailidko retained his BRAVE CF heavyweight title with a quick stoppage win over Miha Frlic.

Football & World Cup: Algeria has extended Vladimir Petkovic’s contract through July 2028 as the Desert Foxes head to the 2026 finals, with Algeria drawn in Group J against Argentina, Austria and debutant Jordan—opening match set for June 16 in Kansas City. Western Sahara Diplomacy: UN Secretary-General envoy Staffan de Mistura arrived in the Sahrawi refugee camps in Tindouf for a June 7-8 visit aimed at creating conditions to restart negotiations. Energy & Regional Trade: Algeria has begun work on its section of the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, a 4,128-km project targeting up to 30 billion cubic metres of gas a year from Nigeria via Niger to Algeria’s Hassi R’Mel for export to Europe. Security & Terrorism: Mali has put a $3.5m bounty on Iyad Ag Ghali, the JNIM leader, as the Sahel remains under pressure from armed groups. Sports Business: Algeria’s national team coach extension and World Cup build-up are also feeding transfer talk, with reports linking Algerian-linked players to European clubs ahead of the tournament.

Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline: Algeria has officially started building its section of the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, a 4,128-km project meant to move up to 30 billion cubic metres of gas a year from Nigeria through Niger to Algeria’s Hassi R’Mel hub for export to Europe. World Cup Focus: Algeria’s return to the 2026 World Cup after a 12-year absence is already driving big attention, with Group J matchups including Argentina and a spotlight on players like Mohamed Amoura and Riyad Mahrez. Courtroom Update: In France, prosecutors have requested the acquittal of Franco-Algerian writer Kamel Daoud in the “Houris” defamation case, with a decision expected on September 8. Community & Culture: Algerian Association AMANA is hosting an outdoor BBQ gathering in Ottawa on June 7, bringing local community life to the fore. Sports & Media: A Netherlands vs Algeria World Cup warm-up result is being widely discussed, while broader World Cup betting and viewing chatter continues to surge.

Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline: Algeria has officially started construction on its section of the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, a 4,128-km project aimed at moving up to 30 billion cubic metres of Nigerian gas through Niger to Algeria’s Hassi R’Mel hub for export to Europe—another push to diversify energy supplies amid ongoing geopolitical pressure. Diplomacy & Regional Ties: Syria’s foreign minister Asaad Al-Shaibani met Algeria’s president Abdelmadjid Tebboune, with both sides stressing cooperation across energy, investment, security, and regional developments. World Cup Focus: Algeria’s return to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is driving major attention, with Group J previews highlighting the squad’s momentum under coach Vladimir Petkovic and key players like Mohamed Amoura and Riyad Mahrez. Legal Spotlight: In the “Houris” defamation case, the Paris prosecution has requested the acquittal of Franco-Algerian writer Kamel Daoud, with the court expected to rule on September 8. Community News: The Algerian Association AMANA is holding an Ottawa BBQ gathering on June 7, bringing Algerians and friends together for food and social activities.

Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline: Algeria has officially started building its section of the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, with construction launched in Algiers during the project’s fifth ministerial steering meeting, aiming to move up to 30 billion cubic metres of gas a year from Nigeria through Niger to Algeria’s Hassi R’Mel and onward to Europe. World Cup Focus: Algeria’s return to the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 12-year absence is driving fresh attention, with Group J matchups featuring Argentina, Austria and Jordan, plus standout talk around Mohamed Amoura’s rise and Algeria’s “transition” under coach Vladimir Petkovic. Rail Modernisation: Algeria’s national rail operator SNTF has launched a tender for up to 124 diesel-electric locomotives, including a firm order for 85, to support freight and passenger services. Diplomacy: Algeria also hosted senior Syrian foreign affairs chief Asaad Al-Shaibani for talks aimed at expanding cooperation across energy, economy, investment and security.

World Cup Build-Up: Algeria’s return to the 2026 stage is gathering momentum as the squad heads to North America, with fans in Kansas City and Lawrence gearing up for Group J matches starting June 16. Warm-Up Shock: Algeria stunned the Netherlands 1-0 in Rotterdam, with Anis Hadj Moussa scoring in the 86th minute after a string of saves by Luca Zidane. Player Spotlight: Mohamed Amoura’s rise from street football in Jijel to Algeria’s World Cup squad is being hailed as a rare, homegrown story. Transport Upgrade: Algeria’s rail operator SNTF is tendering for up to 124 diesel-electric locomotives, including freight and shunting units, with bids due in about 90 days. Energy Push: Algeria has started construction on its section of the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, aiming to move up to 30 billion cubic metres of gas annually from Nigeria through Niger to Algeria for export to Europe. Diplomacy: Syria’s foreign minister Asaad Al Shibani visited Algiers to discuss cooperation in energy, agriculture, mining, transport, and security. Finance Watch: African banking regulators are meeting in Yaoundé to strengthen prudential cooperation and financial stability amid rapid digital change.

Syria–Algeria Diplomacy: Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al Shibani met President Abdelmadjid Tebboune in Algiers, stressing cooperation in energy, economy, investment and security, and agreeing to reactivate joint mechanisms and sector working groups. Financial Oversight: African banking regulators gathered in Yaoundé for CABS talks on strengthening prudential cooperation and financial stability amid digital finance and new risks. World Cup Build-Up: Algeria stunned the Netherlands 1-0 in Rotterdam with Hadj Moussa’s 86th-minute winner, with Luca Zidane starring in goal as Algeria head to the North America tournament. Energy Infrastructure: Algeria launched construction of its Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline section, aiming to move gas from Nigeria through Niger to Algeria’s Mediterranean coast for export to Europe. Legal Developments: Algerian courts cleared the way for a possible presidential pardon for detained French journalist Christophe Gleizes after rejecting prosecutors’ appeal. Tech & Industry: Algeria’s ADC said it will study green hydrogen and brine use, including feasibility work and partnerships tied to desalination by-products. Sports & Talent: Hull City and other English clubs are linked with Algerian midfielder Yacine Titraoui as World Cup preparations continue.

World Cup Build-Up: Algeria sent a strong message ahead of the 2026 tournament, stunning the Netherlands 1-0 in Rotterdam with Hadj Moussa’s 86th-minute strike, while goalkeeper Luca Zidane stood out with key saves. Tournament Logistics: Algeria’s squad is set to base in Lawrence, Kansas, with Group J openers against Argentina on June 16 and another match in Kansas City vs Austria on June 27. Energy Infrastructure: Algeria has launched construction of its section of the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, a 4,128-km project linking Nigeria and Niger to Algeria’s Mediterranean coast for gas exports to Europe. Politics & Diplomacy: Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al Shibani arrived in Algiers for an ice-breaking visit aimed at strengthening ties, including discussions on extremists linked to al-Qaeda. Justice Update: Algeria’s Supreme Court cleared the way for a possible presidential pardon for detained French journalist Christophe Gleizes after rejecting prosecutors’ appeal, leaving his fate with President Tebboune. Domestic Industry: Algeria’s ADC says it will start feasibility studies on green hydrogen and brine utilisation, building on desalination pilot work. Regional Politics: Algeria’s upcoming parliamentary elections are widely seen as unlikely to bring real change, with low expectations for voter turnout.

World Cup Warm-Up: Algeria stunned the Netherlands 1-0 in Rotterdam as Anis Hadj Moussa scored in the 86th minute, with Luca Zidane making key saves for the Dutch. Football & Squads: Algeria’s 2026 World Cup campaign starts June 17 vs Argentina, with matches also against Jordan and Austria; meanwhile, Luca Zidane has been named in Algeria’s 26-man squad after switching allegiance. Justice & Diplomacy: Algeria’s Supreme Court cleared the way for a possible presidential pardon for detained French sports journalist Christophe Gleizes, ending remaining legal hurdles and leaving his fate to President Tebboune. Energy & Industry: Algeria began construction of its section of the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, a 4,128-km project aimed at moving up to 30 bcm of gas annually from Nigeria via Niger to Algeria’s coast for Europe. Environment & Water Tech: Algeria’s desalination authority plans feasibility studies on green hydrogen and brine utilisation, including a framework with ONEDD, alongside progress on new desalination plants. Security: Algerian forces recovered a large weapons cache in In Guezzam, including rifles, machine guns, RPG-7 launchers, rockets, and thousands of rounds of ammunition.

World Cup Build-Up: Algeria stunned the Netherlands 1-0 in Rotterdam as Anis Hadj Moussa struck in the 86th minute, sending the Dutch to the USA with a loss ahead of their 2026 warm-ups. Squad & Eligibility Buzz: Luca Zidane—Zinedine Zidane’s son—has been named in Algeria’s 26-man World Cup squad after switching allegiance in 2025, adding fresh star power to the team’s campaign. Legal & Diplomacy: Algeria’s court cleared the way for a potential presidential pardon for jailed French sports journalist Christophe Gleizes, after rejecting a prosecutors’ appeal and noting his own withdrawal—seen as part of thawing ties with Paris. Security Update: Algerian forces recovered a large weapons cache in In Guezzam, including rifles, machine guns, rocket launchers, ammunition, and military equipment, as part of efforts to secure southern borders. Regional Politics: Tunisian rights advocates rejected claims blaming Morocco for migrant surges into Tunisia, saying migrants don’t travel through Morocco and that the narrative is politically driven. Climate Rights: A landmark case is being heard on African governments’ duties to protect people from the climate crisis, arguing climate stability is essential for human rights.

World Cup Build-Up: Algeria’s World Cup preparations are ramping up, with the team set to arrive at its Lawrence base camp on June 7 and train at Rock Chalk Park, while Algeria’s friendly against the Netherlands is scheduled for today in Rotterdam ahead of the June 11 tournament. Squad Spotlight: Luca Zidane—Zinedine Zidane’s son—has been named in Algeria’s 26-man squad for FIFA World Cup 2026 after switching allegiance in 2025, turning the spotlight back on Algeria’s squad depth in goal. Security Update: Algerian forces recovered a large weapons cache in the In Guezzam region, including rifles, machine guns, RPG-7 launchers, mortars and thousands of rounds of ammunition, as part of efforts to secure southern borders. Sports Contract Rumors: Esperance de Tunis says it has not cut off contact with Algeria winger Youcef Belaïli as his future hinges on the Court of Arbitration for Sport decision tied to his suspension. Climate & Rights: A landmark climate case is being heard by the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, asking what duties African governments have to protect people’s rights from the climate crisis.

World Cup Squad: Algeria has named its 26-man World Cup squad, led by Riyad Mahrez, with a headline call-up for Luca Zidane—Zinedine Zidane’s son—who will represent Algeria after switching allegiance in 2025; Algeria’s Group J opponents are Argentina, Austria and Jordan. Security Update: Algerian forces recovered a large weapons cache in In Guezzam, including rifles, machine guns, RPG-7 launchers, rockets and thousands of rounds of ammunition, as part of efforts to secure southern borders. Military Health Cooperation: Algeria’s defence chief Saïd Chanegriha visited Oman’s Medical City for Military and Security Services and also met senior Omani defence officials, reviewing cooperation and medical/security capabilities. Regional Diplomacy: Turkey’s Erdogan held phone talks with President Tebboune, focusing on expanding ties in trade, energy and defence industries. Sports Community: In the US, Lawrence High School welcomed Algeria as a World Cup base camp, while Algerian expats in the Bay Area plan watch parties tied to local Algerian food. Industry & Water: Lantania won two wastewater treatment upgrade contracts in Algeria, including expansions for dairy and edible oil producers.

World Cup Focus: Algeria has unveiled its 2026 FIFA World Cup squad, captained by Riyad Mahrez and featuring Luca Zidane—son of Zinedine Zidane—alongside Nabil Bentaleb and Houssem Aouar, with Group J opponents Argentina, Austria and Jordan. Team Logistics: Algeria is set to arrive at its World Cup base camp in Lawrence on June 7, with training at Rock Chalk Park and matches in Kansas City. Diplomacy & Regional Ties: Algeria’s Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf says the country is pushing renewed African unity and cooperation, expanding embassies and Air Algérie’s Africa network. Franco-Algerian Rapprochement: Algeria’s Interior Minister Saïd Sayoud is expected in Paris for talks aimed at security cooperation, anti-crime efforts, migration and civil protection. Energy Cooperation: Algeria ratified a memorandum with Azerbaijan to expand oil, gas, petrochemicals and green-energy cooperation. Sahel Security Watch: A viral video claims Azawad Liberation Front fighters are in southern Algeria near the Mali border, but no authority has confirmed it.

World Cup Squad: Algeria has named its 2026 World Cup squad, led by Riyad Mahrez, with a major headline being Luca Zidane—Zinedine Zidane’s son—called up as goalkeeper after his recent recovery from a jaw and chin injury. Sports Logistics: Algeria is set to arrive at its World Cup base camp in Lawrence on June 7, with training at Rock Chalk Park and matches in Kansas City on June 16 (vs Argentina) and June 27 (vs Austria). Defense Diplomacy: Algeria’s senior defense leadership met counterparts in Oman, reviewing fraternal bilateral ties and ways to deepen military cooperation. Energy Watch: Algeria’s pipeline gas exports to Europe rose in the first four months of 2026, with gains reported for deliveries to Spain and Italy. Regional Security: A viral claim alleges Azawad fighters in Algeria’s far south near the Mali border, but no authority has confirmed the footage. Africa Unity: Algeria’s foreign minister reaffirmed the push for stronger African unity and expanded diplomatic and economic engagement across the continent.