Algeria and Italy have recently signed a 420-million-euro deal for an agricultural project in Algeria, which will be the largest agricultural investment by Italy in the southern Mediterranean region. The project will cover 36,000 hectares in Algeria’s Timimoune province and will focus on producing wheat, lentils, beans, and other foods to increase Algerian non-hydrocarbon exports. Additionally, the project is expected to create 6,700 jobs, contributing to economic growth and employment opportunities in the region.
This agreement comes after Algeria signed a $3.5 billion deal with Qatar’s Baladna to establish a cow-breeding facility for powdered milk production. Algeria is also planning to expand production areas in its desert south to 500,000 hectares as part of its long-term agricultural development strategy. The project aligns with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s “Mattei Plan”, which aims to reduce irregular migration from Africa by investing in the continent’s development.
The “Mattei Plan” is named after Enrico Mattei, the founder of Italian energy company Eni, who promoted cooperation with African countries to develop their natural resources in the 1950s. The plan involves a non-predatory cooperation programme between Europe and Africa, valued at 5.5 billion euros, with investments in energy, agriculture, water, health, and education in African countries. Italy has also signed similar deals with other African nations like Tunisia and Libya as part of this initiative.
The agricultural project in Algeria is a significant step towards enhancing food production and exports, ultimately contributing to the country’s economic development. By creating jobs and increasing agricultural output, Algeria aims to strengthen its economy and reduce its dependence on hydrocarbon exports. The partnership between Algeria and Italy reflects a broader trend of international collaboration to support sustainable development in Africa and tackle issues like migration through investment in key sectors like agriculture.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s leadership in promoting the “Mattei Plan” underscores Italy’s commitment to fostering partnerships with African nations for mutual benefit. By focusing on areas like energy, agriculture, and water, the plan aims to address critical development challenges in Africa while also boosting economic ties between Europe and the continent. Through initiatives like the agricultural project in Algeria, Italy is demonstrating its dedication to sustainable investment and long-term cooperation with its African partners.
In conclusion, the 420-million-euro agriculture deal between Algeria and Italy represents a significant milestone in their bilateral relations and underscores the potential for cooperation in key sectors like agriculture and food production. The project not only aims to boost agricultural output and create jobs but also aligns with broader initiatives like the “Mattei Plan” to drive sustainable development and address migration challenges in Africa. By investing in agriculture and other strategic sectors, Algeria and Italy are laying the groundwork for a more prosperous and mutually beneficial partnership in the years to come.
