Somalia’s Energy Minister Calls Oil and Gas Exploration a Transformative Development
Alparslan Bayraktar, Türkiye’s Energy Minister, shared his thoughts on the nation’s significant oil and gas exploration ventures in Somalia. He labeled the efforts as transformative and hinted that global corporations might want to jump on board with these ventures moving forward.
Recently, the Turkish research vessel, Oruç Reis, made its way to Somalia. It’s geared up to conduct in-depth seismic explorations to uncover potential reserves of oil and natural gas.
During the vessel’s reception at the bustling Port of Mogadishu, Bayraktar revealed an agreement between the Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO) and the Somali Petroleum Authority. The pact sets the stage for onshore hydrocarbon exploration in Somalia.
“Our seismic endeavors could offer valuable insights for U.S. firms holding exploration licenses,” Bayraktar stated in an interview with daily Milliyet.
He further mused, “Looking ahead, international firms might join in. Both we and our Somali partners welcome this prospect. It’s a chance for us to lead the charge.”
Clearly distinguishing Türkiye’s efforts from usual operations, Bayraktar emphasized the extraordinary scope of these endeavors.
“Initially, the focus was maritime exploration. Nevertheless, the onshore territory presents opportunities that shouldn’t be ignored, notwithstanding the inherent risks,” the minister acknowledged.
He also mentioned that past U.S. operations in Somalia fell short due to the absence of a seamless approach and necessary operational capacity.
Bayraktar pointed out Turkish Petroleum’s proficiency in both seismic surveillance and exploratory missions, highlighting the availability of specialized vessels.
He commented on the hesitation of smaller American entities to engage in risky offshore ventures.
“One American firm recently visited us for discussions,” Bayraktar remarked.
“They’re now quite content,” he said, “thanks to Oruç Reis’s presence in Somalia conducting advanced three-dimensional seismic examinations. For them, holding a license now holds tangible value.”
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
