The First Bosnian-Algerian Economic Day was held with the aim of strengthening economic cooperation between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Algeria, bringing together government representatives, business leaders, and key stakeholders to explore investment opportunities and areas of mutual interest.
H.E. Ambassador of Algeria to BiH, Mohammed Meraimi, stated that the event goes beyond discussions on trade figures, emphasizing the importance of building a long-term economic strategy between the two countries. He highlighted that Bosnia and Herzegovina and Algeria share a long-standing relationship based on mutual respect, which now needs to be transformed into concrete economic partnerships.
Mr. Meraimi underlined that Algeria is undergoing a historic economic transformation, moving away from reliance on hydrocarbons toward diversification and digitalisation. With a projected nominal GDP of 317 billion US Dollars, Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) of 917 Billion US Dollars and expected growth of 4.1 percent, Algeria’s economy is steadily expanding, with ambitions to approach a trillion-dollar economy by 2029.
He pointed out that Algeria offers significant opportunities for investors from Bosnia and Herzegovina, including access to a market of 1.5 billion consumers through the African Continental Free Trade Area, duty-free exports across the continent, modern logistics infrastructure, and full profit repatriation. He also stressed that Bosnian expertise in mechanical industries, renewable energy, and agriculture aligns with Algeria’s development priorities, particularly in building factories and transferring technology.
Federal Minister of Energy, Mining and Industry Vedran Lakić emphasized that relations between the two countries go beyond formal diplomacy and represent a strong basis for strategic partnership.
“Energy, investments, connecting companies, and joint presence in new markets are key directions for cooperation. We have the opportunity to transform our historical relations into concrete projects and long-term partnerships,” said Lakić.
He added that Algeria’s expertise in natural gas complements Bosnia and Herzegovina’s ongoing energy transition, which includes modernization of the energy system and increased use of renewable sources, making the energy sector a central pillar of future cooperation.
Chairman of the Presidency of BiH, Denis Bećirović, via online message, highlighted that relations between the two countries are rooted in mutual respect, solidarity, and understanding. He noted that in times of global change, strengthening economic cooperation between friendly nations is of particular importance.
Bećirović pointed to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s economic potential, including its strategic geographic position in Southeast Europe, skilled workforce, developed industry, and natural resources. He added that Algeria represents an important partner in Africa, with opportunities for deeper cooperation in energy, infrastructure, tourism, new technologies, agriculture, and construction.
CEO of Energoinvest, Mirza Ustamujić, stated that Algeria is today one of the most important energy partners for European Union countries outside the EU, which opens significant opportunities for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
He stressed that Energoinvest aims to play a key role in connecting European and African markets, highlighting trust and reliability as key strengths in cooperation with Algerian partners. He also announced participation in an upcoming energy fair in Algeria.
As part of the event, two panel discussions were held focusing on Algeria’s strong economic indicators and future prospects, as well as the economic potential of Bosnia and Herzegovina, reaffirming the shared commitment to enhancing bilateral economic cooperation.
