ISLAMABAD – May 24, 2025: Pakistan and Türkiye have taken a significant step toward deepening bilateral energy cooperation, following the provisional award of two onshore oil and gas exploration blocks to Turkish state-owned firm Turk Petrolleri Anonim Ortakligi (TPAO) in Pakistan’s latest bidding round.
The development was confirmed during a high-level meeting between Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik and Turkish Ambassador Irfan Neziroglu at the Ministry of Petroleum on Friday. The meeting centered on expanding collaboration in oil and gas exploration, critical minerals, and broader energy sector engagement.
Minister Malik expressed Pakistan’s gratitude for Türkiye’s steadfast diplomatic support, particularly during recent tensions with India. He conveyed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s appreciation for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s vocal backing, underscoring the strength of the historical and strategic partnership between the two nations.
Ambassador Neziroglu reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment, describing the bilateral relationship as a “time-tested brotherhood,” and praised Pakistan’s resilience in navigating geopolitical challenges.
The discussions emphasized opportunities for *joint ventures, technology transfer, and resource development. TPAO’s successful bids in the *May 13, 2025 Onshore Licensing Round were highlighted as a milestone.
The two awarded blocks include:
- Ziarat North (Balochistan): MariEnergies (33.16%, operator), OGDCL (24.87%), PPL (24.87%), TPAO (10%), and GHPL (7.10%).
- Sukhpur-II (Sindh): Prime (25%, operator), OGDCL (30%), MariEnergies (30%), and TPAO (15%).
TPAO has also entered into a Joint Bidding Agreement with MariEnergies, OGDCL, and PPL to participate in Pakistan’s upcoming Offshore Bid Round 2025, marking another step forward in strategic cooperation.
The meeting concluded with mutual commitment to further enhance energy sector collaboration and strengthen economic ties between Pakistan and Türkiye.
