Sánchez to Open New Bilateral Era in Algeria, Boosting Gas Imports

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is set to visit Algeria, aiming to certify the full normalization of bilateral relations and usher in a new era of increased Algerian gas imports. This visit follows a significant diplomatic rift caused by Spain's shift in position on the Western Sahara issue.

Sánchez's trip seeks to move past the 2022 crisis, during which Algeria recalled its ambassador and suspended a friendship treaty after Spain backed Morocco's autonomy proposal for the former Spanish colony. A gradual thaw began in 2023, leading to the ambassador's return and the resumption of diplomatic ties. The reactivation of the Friendship Treaty was confirmed during Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares' visit to Algiers in March.

Sources within the Spanish government emphasize that Sánchez's meeting with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune will symbolize the complete restoration of normal relations. They also note that Spain's stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly its support for the Palestinian people amid the Gaza situation, has positively influenced this diplomatic reset.

Accompanying Sánchez will be Foreign Minister Albares and Vice President Sara Aagesen. Representatives from key Spanish energy companies, Repsol, Naturgy, Moeve, and Enagás, will also be present. Algeria is Spain's leading gas supplier, accounting for nearly 34% of its total imports in the first half of 2026, ahead of the United States. Both governments express interest in increasing these imports and exploring cooperation in renewable energy development and boosting Spanish exports to Algeria.

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The meeting with President Tebboune will symbolize the full recovery of normality in relations.