Türkiye Deploys Seismic Vessel for Pakistan Offshore Energy Exploration

The Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO) is deploying the seismic research vessel Oruç Reis to Pakistan to conduct offshore oil and gas exploration. The vessel is scheduled to arrive in Karachi between November 17 and 20, 2026, marking the resumption of Pakistan's offshore exploration activities after a hiatus of nearly twenty years.

Turkish Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar stated the mission aligns with a growth strategy to expand TPAO's overseas operations through partnerships and acquisitions. The initiative follows the Makkah Agreement and is intended to enhance Pakistan's energy security while strengthening bilateral ties.

In Islamabad, Pakistan's Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik chaired a high-level meeting to coordinate security, maritime, and operational arrangements for the vessel's arrival. Malik described the resumption of exploration as a historic achievement and an important milestone in the friendship between the two nations.