KARACHI – Pakistan is preparing for major breakthrough in its energy sector as Turkish seismic survey vessel is scheduled to arrive in Karachi later this month, potentially reviving offshore oil and gas exploration activities after nearly 20 years.
The arrival of the vessel, operated by Turkish Petroleum, between November 17 and 20, 2026, is expected to mark a significant step in Pakistan’s efforts to unlock offshore energy resources, reduce dependence on imported fuels and strengthen long-term energy security. The development also signals a new chapter in Pakistan-Türkiye strategic cooperation, with both countries aiming to transform their longstanding friendship into meaningful partnerships in the energy sector.
Preparations for the Turkish vessel’s arrival have gained momentum following a high-level meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik. The meeting reviewed arrangements for receiving the vessel and coordinating the offshore exploration activities planned under the bilateral initiative. The petroleum minister hinted that he would personally welcome the Turkish vessel upon its arrival in Karachi, underscoring the importance the government attaches to the project.
He also instructed all relevant institutions to maintain close coordination and ensure that the necessary operational and logistical arrangements are completed ahead of the vessel’s arrival.
The planned offshore exploration initiative could revive a major area of Pakistan’s energy sector after nearly 20 years, opening fresh opportunities to investigate potential oil and gas reserves beneath the country’s territorial waters. The project is being viewed as an important step towards exploring domestic energy resources at a time when Pakistan continues to face challenges arising from costly fuel imports and growing energy requirements.
While Turkish vessel will initially undertake seismic survey activities, the findings could help identify promising offshore locations for future exploratory drilling. However, the discovery of commercially recoverable oil or gas reserves will depend on further exploration and technical assessments.
Ali Malik calls this initiative another major milestone in relations between Pakistan and Türkiye, particularly following the Makkah Agreement. He reaffirmed Islamabad’s commitment to providing comprehensive assistance to Turkish Petroleum throughout the offshore exploration process.
In an optimistic assessment of the project’s potential, Malik said Pakistan and Türkiye could achieve a historic success that would be remembered for generations.
During the meeting, the Turkish Petroleum project manager thanked Pakistani authorities for their cooperation and the arrangements being made to facilitate the vessel’s operations.
The positive response from both sides reflects their shared commitment to advancing the offshore exploration initiative and ensuring smooth coordination among the institutions involved.
With the vessel’s expected arrival drawing closer, preparations are underway to support the next phase of offshore exploration.
Petrol Price in Pakistan drops to Rs352.59, bringing Major Relief to Millions
