KUALA LUMPUR, June 20 (Bernama) -- Malaysia and Turkmenistan have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in the energy sector, acknowledging Petroliam Nasional Bhd’s (Petronas) longstanding and positive contributions in the field.
In a joint statement, the leaders of both countries emphasised the significance of enhancing bilateral cooperation in the energy sector.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and President Serdar Berdimuhamedov also welcomed the 30th anniversary of the partnership between Turkmenistan and Petronas, describing it as a significant milestone in the enduring relationship between the two sides.
“Both Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening a robust and enduring partnership, with a strong focus on the oil and gas sector aimed at sustained growth and mutual prosperity,” the statement said.
Anwar has just completed his two-day official visit to Turkmenistan, which took place from June 18 to June 19.
The leaders emphasised the strategic importance of the signing in Ashgabat production sharing agreement (PSA) between the State Concern Turkmennebit, Petronas Carigali (Turkmenistan) Sdn Bhd (PC(T)SB) and the the State Enterprise Hazarnebit, the signing of the cooperation agreement (CA) on carrying out 2D Seismic Studies between the State Concern Turkmennebit and PC(T)SB as well as the signing of the confidentiality agreement between the State Concern Turkmengas and Petronas Carigali International Ventures Sdn Bhd, on June 19 which further reinforce collaboration in the upstream sector.
In a separate statement, Petronas said under the newly signed PSA, PC(T)SB would acquire a 100 per cent participating interest in Block-19 and Block-20, marking the national oil company’s entry into new exploration acreage in Turkmenistan.
Meanwhile, the CA provides for the acquisition of new seismic data to address existing data gaps and enable a more comprehensive evaluation of the Northern Offshore Blocks.
Petronas chief operating officer and executive vice president and chief executive officer of upstream Mohd Jukris Abdul Wahab said the agreements reflect the company’s confidence in the continued potential of Turkmenistan's energy sector and the belief in what could be achieved through enduring partnerships anchored in mutual respect and technical collaboration.
He also noted that Petronas remains committed to working alongside its partners to responsibly develop resources, strengthen energy resilience and create sustainable value for all stakeholders, wherever the company operates.
-- BERNAMA
