German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul is travelling to Tunisia and Algeria on Monday, seeking to strengthen economic and security cooperation with the two North African countries amid global instability.
Germany shares with both countries the goal of achieving lasting stability in the Sahel region, Wadephul said before departing.
He said easing tensions in the Middle East and along shipping routes around the Arabian Peninsula was also of great importance for security and supplies.
Wadephul highlighted energy cooperation as an area offering considerable potential for both sides to generate greater growth and prosperity.
“Together, we can make the Mediterranean a space of strength between our continents,” the conservative politician said.
In Tunis, Wadephul plans to meet his counterpart Mohamed Nafti before talks with business representatives and a visit to a start-up. He is to be accompanied by a business delegation.
Later in the afternoon, Wadephul intends to travel on to Algiers, where meetings are planned with Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf and business representatives. He is also due to be received by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.
Economic ties in focus
Tunisia and Germany are marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year. Germany is Tunisia’s third-largest export market, according to Wadephul, who said resilient supply chains were particularly important for the German automotive industry.
Around 7,500 young Tunisians study in Germany, while Tunisian skilled workers make a valuable contribution to the German health care system, he said.
Algeria, meanwhile, is one of the European Union’s most important gas suppliers, Wadephul said. The country’s importance is set to grow further due to its potential to become a major supplier of green hydrogen.
Germany and Algeria agreed in July to significantly deepen their energy partnership.