Algeria plays energy card in effort to influence U.S. on Sahara file

Algeria is seeking to leverage its oil and gas sector to strengthen ties with major American energy firms, a move analysts say is aimed at swaying Washington’s position on the Moroccan Sahara.

Energy Minister Mohamed Arkab met this week with Ahmed Helmi, Halliburton’s vice president for North Africa, to discuss potential cooperation with state-owned Sonatrach, including new drilling projects, digital solutions and training programs for Algerian workers. The talks were widely covered in Algerian media, underscoring the government’s eagerness to attract global energy players.

Observers, however, see political motives behind the outreach. Algiers hopes that aligning with U.S. oil interests could shift Washington’s stance on the Sahara. The United States continues to back Morocco’s autonomy plan, which it has called the most realistic solution.

“Algeria is in a strategic crisis,” said Abdelwahab Elkayn, head of Africa Watch. “Oil contracts are no substitute for democracy or genuine economic change.”

Political analyst Dadai Bibout echoed that view, arguing that U.S. foreign policy is not easily influenced by economic lobbying. “No energy deal will undo America’s recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara,” he said.

Analysts also point to structural challenges within Algeria’s energy sector, including underdeveloped fields, outdated infrastructure, and a reliance on fossil fuels that leaves the country exposed to climate and market risks. Despite flashy announcements, they say, partnerships with firms like Halliburton may remain more aspirational than real.