Italy more independent from Russian gas: Draghi signs an agreement with Algeria
The government's goal is to increase imports from the North African country. Agreement on energy also between Eni and Sonatrch
Mario Draghi (Ansa)
Prime Minister Mario Draghi on a visit to Algeria, accompanied by Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio and Roberto Cingolani for Ecological Transition.
The opportunity to sign a first agreement to increase gas supplies from the North African country which already represents 31% of our imports, second only to Russia. An agreement which, in the government's intentions, should further decrease dependence on Moscow's energy supplies, also and above all in the light of the war in Ukraine and the collapse of relations between European nations and the Kremlin.
"Our Governments have signed a Declaration of Intent on bilateral cooperation in the energy sector. To this is added the agreement between Eni (in the Italian delegation also the CEO Claudio Descalzi, ed) and Sonatrach to increase gas exports towards Italy ", explained the Prime Minister after the signing of the agreement.
"Immediately after the invasion of Ukraine, I announced that Italy would move quickly to reduce dependence on Russian gas. Today's agreements are a significant response to this strategic goal, others will follow," added Draghi. . "The Government - concludes the premier - wants to defend citizens and businesses from the consequences of the conflict".
After the face to face with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, the meeting of the government delegation with the Italian community: there are about 200 companies with a permanent presence in Algeria, engaged in the energy field but also in the sectors of infrastructure and major works.
(Unioneonline / lf)
