Friday July 19, 2024
Oruc Reis Research Vessel is set to head to Somalia for seismic operations. (AA Photo)
Mogadishu (HOL) — Türkiye is set to send an exploration vessel to Somalia later this year to search for oil and gas as part of a hydrocarbon cooperation deal between the two countries, the Turkish Energy Ministry announced on Thursday.
Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar said the Oruc Reis Seismic Research Vessel will embark on this mission at the end of September or early October. "We will conduct a significant seismic study that can last for months," Bayraktar stated.
The exploration will focus on three blocks, two of which are approximately 50 kilometres off the Somali coast and the third around 100 kilometres offshore. "We believe that Somalia has substantial offshore oil and natural gas resources. With the agreement, Türkiye will have exclusive rights for exploration and production if we find oil in these areas," Bayraktar added.
In March, Türkiye signed an offshore oil and natural gas cooperation deal with Somalia, following a defence agreement earlier in the year, further strengthening bilateral ties. This agreement aims to promote scientific, technical, and commercial cooperation in oil and gas development, including exploration, appraisal, development, production, and potential refinery operations for petroleum.
Türkiye has been a pivotal partner to Somalia since 2011, providing humanitarian assistance during the 2011 famine and budgetary support. In 2017, Türkiye opened a large military facility in Somalia to train security forces, solidifying its regional presence and influence.
The Oruc Reis will be supported by a team of 50 specialists, five additional ships, and the Turkish navy. "Within the strategic framework established since 2016, we are now capable of carrying out these activities with our own equipment," Bayraktar emphasized.
The exploration activities are part of a broader strategy by Türkiye to expand its energy exploration efforts in Africa, showcasing the country's growing capabilities in offshore drilling and exploration. The seismic surveys and initial explorations are expected to begin by the end of 2024, with offshore oil drilling set to commence in 2025.
Somali Petroleum and Mineral Resources Minister Abdirizak Mohamed highlighted the comprehensive nature of the deal, stating that joint activities will not only develop Somalia's oil and gas resources but also benefit the Somali people economically. The agreement includes provisions for training and equipping the Somali navy, enhancing local capacity and security.