Gaz de France’s (GDF) supply of Algerian natural gas involves a total volume of approximately 10 billion cubic meters, and represents almost 15% of total supply by the group in 2006, making Algeria one of its principal suppliers.
The 42 years of co-operation between GDF and Sonatrach was also broadened at the end of 2006 with a new 20-year contract involving the purchase of about one billion cubic meters of natural gas to be transported in Medgaz. This gas pipeline, in which GDF is a 12% partner with Sonatrach, will link Spain to Algeria. Its commissioning is expected to begin in 2009.
Jean-Francois Cirelli, chairman and CEO of GDF, said: This agreement will allow GDF to ensure a significant part of French supplies until 2019. It represents an important step in the relationship which, for more than 40 years, has bonded us with our Sonatrach friends. These contracts will also allow GDF to strengthen its position as the European leader in LNG.
