Nigerien President General Abdourahamane Tiani began a crucial official visit to Algiers on February 15. While the discussions officially focus on energy and security cooperation, the diplomatic crisis between Algeria and neighboring Mali inevitably casts a shadow over the summit.

1. The dilemma of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES)

Niger finds itself in a delicate position as mediator or tightrope walker. As a member of the ESA, Niamey has thus far displayed unwavering solidarity with Bamako, whose relations with Algiers collapsed after the Malian drone incident in April 2025 and Algeria's refusal to answer before the ICJ.

However, this visit signals Niamey's desire to prioritize its own national imperatives:

1. Normalization: The recent return of the respective ambassadors signals the end of a period of chill.
2. Pragmatism: Despite regional tensions, Niger cannot do without the partnership with the Algerian giant.

2. A "Hydrocarbon Diplomacy" and Structuring Projects

Accompanied by a high-ranking delegation (Defense, Oil, Energy, Infrastructure), General Tiani is counting on the revival of strategic projects.

Sector	Key projects and challenges
Energy	Optimal exploitation of hydrocarbons and oil cooperation.
Infrastructure	Progress of the trans-Saharan fiber optic backbone project.
Security	Training programs and capacity building for Nigerien forces.

3. The diplomatic paradox of Algiers

President Abdelmadjid Tebboune is playing a complex game. While attempting to improve ties with the Sahel region through Niger, he is simultaneously hosting Laurent Nuñez , the French Minister of the Interior. This is a symbolically powerful presence, given that Niamey still views Paris as a potential adversary.

The challenge: To succeed in decoupling vital economic interests from the ideological military alliances that are currently fracturing the Sahel region.