The Algerian army said that “the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron will be a decisive step in the quest for understanding between the two sides.”

In turn, Macron praised Algeria’s contribution to the “diversification” of sources of gas supplies to Europe by increasing its exports to Italy.

On the second day of his visit to Algeria, Macron noted that “we are not competing with Italy” in Algerian gas, highlighting the “weak importance of gas in the energy balance” of France.

He added: “I thank Algeria for increasing the amount of gas in the pipeline that feeds Italy. It’s good for Italy, good for Europe and promotes diversification (sources) in Europe,” which was heavily dependent on Russia. gas, explaining that “we are not in a situation where Algerian gas can change the data.”

On the other hand, he stressed that “it is very good that cooperation and more gas goes to Italy”, emphasizing the need for “European solidarity”.