Türkiye expands oil, gas explorations to offshore Somalia

Türkiye will continue its natural gas and oil explorations in Africa, as announced by the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar.

The General Directorate of Mineral Research and Exploration (MTA) Oruc Reis Seismic Research Vessel is set to head to Somalia for this mission.

“Türkiye will search for oil and natural gas in offshore Somalia. There is a field located 50 to 100 kilometers offshore where we will conduct seismic operations,” Minister Bayraktar stated.

“This work will result in drilling and subsequent discovery. The sea depth is between 2000-3000 meters, and we will be drilling to 7 kilometers (4.3 miles), including the seabed,” he emphasized the expected outcome.

The Oruc Reis will embark on this mission with a team of 50, supported by five additional ships, and the navy will also participate.

“Within the strategic framework established since 2016, we are now capable of carrying out these activities with our own equipment,” Bayraktar added.