Turkey and Somalia signed the Hydrocarbon Exploration and Production Agreement.
Turkey and Somalia signed the Hydrocarbon Exploration and Production Agreement.’ and maritime security cooperation.
The agreement grants Turkey exclusive rights to explore and produce oil in three blocks within Somali territorial waters. Turkey’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Fatih Dönmez, and Somalia’s Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Abdirizak Omar Mohamed, signed it.
The exploration project will involve conducting comprehensive 3D seismic surveys in the strategically located blocks. The first phase will begin in late September or early October using Turkey’s seismic vessel, Oruç Reis, and a fleet of auxiliary ships.
The depth of the exploration zones presents significant challenges, with sea depths reaching 2,000 to 3,000 meters and drilling set to extend a further 4,000 meters, totaling 7,000 meters from the sea surface. Turkey plans to rely on its indigenous engineering expertise and advanced technical equipment to ensure operational efficiency and success.
However, due to piracy threats off the Somali coast, comprehensive security measures will be implemented to safeguard exploration and drilling operations. This will involve deploying a combination of Unmanned Surface Vehicles and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles configured for maritime patrol, patrol boats, offshore patrol vessels, and select combat ships.
The project off the Somali coast provides a unique environment for testing and developing new military tactics and doctrines, with the insights gained crucial in the continuous development of advanced defense technologies.
The agreement between Turkey and Somalia is a significant milestone in their bilateral relations. It reflects a strategic vision that goes beyond economic interests and is expected to have a transformative impact on regional energy dynamics and maritime security in the Horn of Africa.
