Kazakhstan, Astana, 28 June / Trend D.Mukhtarov /
Russian Lukoil is in talks with the government of Kazakhstan for the exploration and investigation of two new blocks in the Kazakh sector of the Caspian Sea along with NC KazMunaiGas JSC (KMG), KMG Deputy Chairman for Geology and Perspective Projects Kurmangazi Iskaziev said in an interview with Trend.
According to him it is about the two offshore blocks of Okzhetpes and 2P2.
"We are currently in negotiations and considering the work programme. Discussions are taking place over the prospects, we are analysing the geological and geophysical data and studying the conditions for Lukoil's accession into these two exploration projects. We are also holding consultations with the relevant Kazakhstan authorities," Iskaziev said.
According to him, following negotiations between KMG and Lukoil, the partners intend to apply to the necesssary authority to obtain mining rights for two offshore blocks.
"Lukoil is our trusted partner, so we will try to conclude a contract under optimally acceptable terms," Iskaziev said.
Lukoil is involved in seven production sites, Tengiz, Karachaganak, Kumkol Alibekmola-Kozhasay, North Buzachi, Karakuduk, Armand, three exploration ones of Tub-Karagan, Atash, South Zhambai -South Zaburunye and a downstream project in Kazakhstan.
Lukoil began operations in Kazakhstan in 1995. This is one of the most active foreign companies in the oil and gas sector of Kazakhstan. Along with KazMunaiGas, Chevron and CNPC, the company is included in the top four in terms of oil and gas production in the country.