Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik chaired a high-level meeting on Friday to review preparations for the arrival of a seismic vessel operated by the Turkish Petroleum Offshore Company (TPOC). The vessel is expected to arrive in Karachi between November 17 and 20, 2026. According to the Petroleum Division, this marks the revival of Pakistan’s offshore exploration efforts after nearly two decades.
Minister Malik described the arrival as a special milestone in Pakistan-Türkiye relations, particularly following the signing of the Mecca Agreement. He stated that the arrival represents a new chapter in the friendship between the two countries and said, “I will try to personally receive the vessel upon its arrival in Karachi.” The Minister assured the Turkish delegation of Pakistan’s full support, stating that both countries would work together to achieve a landmark success that would be remembered for generations to come.
The meeting reviewed operational, logistical, maritime, security, and interdepartmental arrangements for the vessel’s arrival and the commencement of the offshore exploration campaign intended to build Pakistan’s energy security. The Secretary Petroleum expressed enthusiasm for the arrival and underscored the importance of coordination among all relevant departments and stakeholders. The Project Manager of TPOC expressed confidence in the project, noting that the team had received encouraging support from Pakistani authorities.
The development follows the formal reopening of Pakistan's offshore oil and gas exploration sector in May 2026. According to a notice filed by Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) with the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), the company executed Production Sharing Agreements (PSAs) and exploration licences on May 20, 2026, for eight offshore exploration blocks awarded under the Pakistan Offshore Bid Round 2025. These agreements were executed in the presence of the Federal Minister for Petroleum.
The newly awarded portfolio includes two PPL-operated offshore blocks, Gharo Creek and Kochi Creek, while PPL is also participating in six partner-operated offshore blocks: Bin Qasim South, Keti Bandar, Behr, Zarrar, Offshore Deep D, and Sapat Bandar.
