Türkiye and Pakistan have formalized agreements for the exploration and production of hydrocarbons across three offshore and two onshore sites, marking a significant milestone in bilateral energy cooperation.

The agreements were announced by Türkiye’s Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources following high-level discussions between Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

The projects involve Türkiye Petroleum Corporation (TPAO) and leading Pakistani energy companies, including Mari Energies, Fatima, OGDCL, PPL, Prime, and GHPL. Three of the five sites are offshore, while the remaining two are onshore. TPAO will serve as the operator for one of the offshore blocks, with Türkiye’s seismic research vessels scheduled to begin operations in the region in 2026.

Bayraktar emphasized that Türkiye’s advanced exploration and production capabilities will now be deployed in Pakistan’s energy sector. “Some of the exploration activities will focus on seismic studies, while others will proceed with direct drilling. We are optimistic about the potential of these sites,” he said, highlighting that the collaboration signals a new era in Türkiye-Pakistan energy relations.

The minister also noted that cooperation extends beyond hydrocarbons. Turkish state agencies, MTAIC and Eti Maden, are expected to undertake joint mining projects in Pakistan, tapping into the country’s diverse mineral resources.

Bayraktar underscored that the recent visit of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to Pakistan provided momentum to bilateral relations. The expanded energy and mining cooperation is expected to play a pivotal role in achieving a $5 billion trade volume target, with joint initiatives planned in oil products and LNG procurement.

Officials from both countries expressed optimism that these strategic agreements will strengthen economic ties, enhance energy security, and pave the way for long-term collaboration across multiple sectors. (ILKHA)