Algeria Hints at Letting Go of Gas Pipeline Passing through Morocco

A gas pipeline in Algeria (File photo: Reuters)
A gas pipeline in Algeria (File photo: Reuters)
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Algeria Hints at Letting Go of Gas Pipeline Passing through Morocco

A gas pipeline in Algeria (File photo: Reuters)
A gas pipeline in Algeria (File photo: Reuters)

Algeria said Thursday that all the natural gas supplies in Spain are now provided through its gas pipeline connecting the two countries, bypassing Morocco, Algeria's official news agency APS reported.

The announcement, which comes two days after Algeria announced the severance of diplomatic relations with Morocco, suggests that Algiers will do without the Maghreb-Europe gas pipeline, which connects Europe via Morocco.

The Algerian Minister of Energy and Mines Mohamed Arkab made the announcement during a meeting with the Spanish ambassador.

Arkab affirmed: "Algeria's total commitment to cover all of Spain's natural gas supplies through the Medgaz," directly connecting the two countries, according to a ministry statement carried by APS.

Last week, before Algeria decided to "review" and then completely sever its relations with Morocco, Rabat said it was in favor of maintaining the Maghreb-Europe gas pipeline, the contract of which is due to expire in October 2021.

"Even in the event of non-renewal of this contract which ends next October, Algeria will be able to supply Spain, but also respond to any additional demand from the Spanish market without any problem," announced Sonatrach CEO last June.

APS also criticized Morocco's announcement of its willingness to extend the gas agreement between the two countries and said that Rabat reaps a "great benefit" from the passage of the gas pipeline to Europe.

Algiers announced on Tuesday that it was severing diplomatic relations with Rabat, citing "relentless hostile acts perpetrated by Morocco against Algeria."



Gulf States Accelerate Adoption of Unified Digital Government Platforms

A Tawakkalna app events in Saudi Arabia (Asharq Al-Awsat)
A Tawakkalna app events in Saudi Arabia (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Gulf States Accelerate Adoption of Unified Digital Government Platforms

A Tawakkalna app events in Saudi Arabia (Asharq Al-Awsat)
A Tawakkalna app events in Saudi Arabia (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Gulf governments are moving swiftly to leverage modern technology in reshaping citizen-government relations, with a strong push toward digital transformation and more efficient, user-centric public services.

At the forefront of this shift are unified government applications that constitute comprehensive digital platforms that combine smart technology with seamless usability.

According to a recent study by Strategy& Middle East, a member of the PwC network, these platforms are no longer optional but have become strategic necessities.

The study, titled “Unified Government Apps: Smart Choices for Services and Cost Control,” highlights that citizens and residents can now complete services such as issuing birth certificates, renewing business licenses, or applying for social support within minutes, without physically visiting a government office.

Tawakkalna: A Saudi Model

Saudi Arabia’s Tawakkalna app, originally launched as a health tool during the COVID-19 pandemic, has since evolved into a comprehensive digital gateway offering over 1,100 government services.

Dr. Esam Al-Wagait, Director of the National Information Center at the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), noted the Kingdom’s aim to build a proactive digital government powered by AI.

“We are creating an integrated system that uses advanced technology to predict citizen needs and deliver personalized experiences aligned with smart and sustainable city goals,” he said.

Engineer Saleh Mosaibah, Deputy Director of the National Information Center, added that unified platforms enhance inter-agency collaboration, reduce operational costs, strengthen cybersecurity, and boost Saudi Arabia’s regional and global competitiveness.

Challenges and Solutions

Despite progress, the study noted operational and technical challenges remain, particularly around user expectations for faster, smoother service. Repeated logins and redundant data entry were identified as key obstacles.

Engineer Hani Zein, Partner at Strategy& Middle East, stressed the need for seamless, single-entry platforms powered by artificial intelligence.

“Unified interfaces are the future. They improve service delivery, enhance quality of life, and align with Gulf digital transformation goals,” he said.

Investment and Private Sector Integration

Experts stress that building such applications requires significant investment in IT infrastructure, data integration, and cybersecurity. “These are not just tech expenses, they are investments in smarter, more cost-efficient governance,” said Mosaibah.

The private sector also presents growth opportunities. Licensed companies could offer services through government platforms for a fee, or strategic partnerships could bring in private funding and innovation without straining public budgets.

Building a Sustainable Model

To ensure sustainability, Zein recommends a three-pillar approach: an agile operational model inspired by startups, strong legal and financial frameworks, and robust risk management systems. These foundations, he said, enable governments to move quickly, innovate freely, and maintain public trust.

With the right strategy, Zein and Mosaibah believe Saudi Arabia is well-positioned to set global standards for integrated digital government, offering a world-class experience for citizens and residents alike.