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November 23, 2025 | 1 month ago

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The head of TotalEnergies emphasises the separation between politics and business: ‘The less politicians get involved, the better business is.’

TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanné addressed relations between Algiers and Paris head-on in response to a question clearly focused on gas and the anticipated rapprochement between Paris and Algiers. In a few precise sentences, he sent a clear message that ‘the less politicians get involved, the better business will be’.

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On the LCI television channel, Patrick Pouyanné, CEO of Total Energy, emphasised the stability of energy relations between France and Algeria, despite political tensions. He stated that gas remains a pillar of bilateral cooperation, pointing out that Algerian gas, which is competitive with American gas, benefits from a logistical advantage due to its geographical proximity. He emphasised the continuity of contracts between Total Energy and Sonatrach, outside of political interference, and reiterated that negotiations are conducted directly with the public company. He emphasised the continuity of contracts between Total Énergie and Sonatrach, outside of political interference, and reiterated that negotiations are conducted directly with the Algerian public company.

This statement comes amid a thaw in relations between Paris and Algiers, with Emmanuel Macron expressing his desire to resume structured dialogue. Algeria remains a strategic economic partner for France, particularly in the energy sector. In 2024, bilateral trade reached about €11 billion,  with Algerian hydrocarbons dominant. Pouyanné's comments illustrate a pragmatic approach to business relations, based on trust between companies, regardless of political fluctuations. The ongoing bilateral dialogue could reinforce this dynamic and pave the way for a revival of economic exchanges.

November 23, 2025 | algeria-logo

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