Pakistan and Türkiye are set to resume offshore oil and gas exploration after nearly two decades, with a seismic survey 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 meeting on Friday, where officials discussed logistical, operational, maritime and security arrangements.
Malik described the initiative as a milestone in bilateral relations, reaffirming the government’s commitment to facilitating the project and ensuring full cooperation with the Turkish delegation.
The meeting was attended by senior officials of the Petroleum Division, representatives of state-owned oil and gas companies, and officials from relevant ministries and departments.
The development follows Pakistan Petroleum Limited’s signing of production sharing agreements and exploration licences on May 20, 2026, for eight offshore blocks awarded under the Pakistan Offshore Bid Round 2025.
The portfolio includes two PPL-operated blocks, Gharo Creek and Kochi Creek, and six partner-operated blocks, marking progress towards reviving offshore hydrocarbon exploration in Pakistan.
