ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is set to revive its offshore oil and gas exploration efforts after nearly two decades, with a seismic vessel operated by Türkiye’s Petroleum Offshore Company (TPOC) expected to arrive in Karachi between November 17 and 20, marking a significant step in the two countries’ energy cooperation.
Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik on Friday chaired a high-level meeting to review preparations for the vessel’s arrival and the launch of its offshore exploration campaign, which the government hopes will contribute to strengthening Pakistan’s energy security.
Describing the development as a milestone in Pakistan-Türkiye relations, the minister said the vessel’s arrival would open a new chapter in the longstanding cooperation between the two countries, particularly following the signing of the Mecca Agreement.
“This is a special moment for Pakistan-Türkiye friendship. I will try to personally receive the vessel upon its arrival in Karachi,” he said.
Ali Pervaiz Malik reaffirmed the government’s commitment to facilitating the offshore exploration initiative and ensuring that all necessary arrangements were in place for the smooth commencement of operations.
He assured the Turkish delegation of Pakistan’s full support and said both countries would work together to make the project a landmark success.
ALSO READ
Pakistan reaffirms support for Sudan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity
The Secretary Petroleum also welcomed the upcoming arrival of the vessel and stressed the need for close coordination among government departments and other stakeholders to ensure smooth arrangements.
The TPOC project manager appreciated the cooperation extended by Pakistani authorities and expressed confidence in the project’s prospects, saying the team had received encouraging support from the relevant departments.
The meeting reviewed operational, logistical, maritime, security and interdepartmental arrangements for the vessel’s arrival and the start of the offshore exploration campaign. Relevant departments were directed to maintain close coordination to ensure timely facilitation.
The meeting was attended by the TPOC project manager, Secretary Petroleum, Additional Secretary Petroleum, Director General Petroleum Concessions, and managing directors of the Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL), Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) and Government Holdings (Private) Limited (GHPL).
Representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, National Hydrographic Office Pakistan (NAVAREA IX), Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Interior, Board of Investment and Directorate General Ports and Shipping, Karachi, also attended the meeting.
