Pakistan, Türkiye to revive offshore exploration after nearly two decades
- Petroleum minister describes the development as an important milestone in Pakistan-Türkiye relations
Pakistan and Türkiye are resuming offshore oil and gas exploration after two decades. A Turkish seismic vessel is arriving in Karachi soon, marking a significant step in bilateral cooperation and Pakistan's energy security efforts.
- Revival of offshore oil and gas exploration after two decades.
- Strengthening Pakistan-Türkiye relations and bilateral cooperation.
- Pakistan's efforts to enhance energy security through hydrocarbon exploration.
Pakistan and Türkiye are set to revive offshore oil and gas exploration after nearly two decades, with a seismic vessel operated by Turkish Petroleum Offshore Company (TPOC) expected to arrive in Karachi between November 17 and 20.
Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik reviewed preparations for the vessel’s arrival during a high-level meeting on Friday, where officials discussed operational, logistical, maritime and security arrangements for the exploration campaign.
The petroleum minister described the development as an important milestone in Pakistan-Türkiye relations, particularly following the signing of the Mecca Agreement, and said it would open a new chapter in bilateral cooperation.
READ MORE: Pakistan revives offshore oil, gas hunt after two decades
Calling the occasion a special moment for the two countries, Malik said he would try to personally receive the vessel when it reaches Karachi.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to facilitating the project and assured the Turkish delegation of Pakistan’s full support, expressing hope that the initiative would achieve a historic outcome.
Secretary Petroleum also welcomed the development and stressed the need for coordination among government departments and other stakeholders to ensure smooth arrangements for the vessel’s arrival and operations.
The TPOC project manager acknowledged the support extended by Pakistani authorities and expressed confidence in the exploration initiative.
The meeting was attended by senior officials of the Petroleum Division, including the director general of Petroleum Concessions, and managing directors of Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL), Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) and Government Holdings (Private) Limited (GHPL).
Representatives from the ministries of foreign affairs, maritime affairs, defence and interior, the Board of Investment, National Hydrographic Office Pakistan and Directorate General Ports and Shipping also participated.
The latest development comes months after Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) signed Production Sharing Agreements (PSAs) and exploration licences for eight offshore exploration blocks awarded under the Pakistan Offshore Bid Round 2025, marking a significant step toward reviving offshore hydrocarbon exploration in the country after nearly two decades.
According to a notice filed by the company with the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), the agreements were executed on May 20, 2026, in the presence of the Federal Minister for Petroleum, following the earlier provisional award of the offshore blocks announced by the company on November 13, 2025.
The company stated that the newly awarded portfolio includes two PPL-operated offshore blocks — Gharo Creek and Kochi Creek — while PPL is also participating in six partner-operated offshore blocks, namely Bin Qasim South, Keti Bandar, Behr, Zarrar, Offshore Deep D and Sapat Bandar.