Under the auspices of the Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Affairs and Minister of Oil Oil Ministry: Signing of a contract for a 2D seismic survey of "Al-Qarnain" exploration block
The Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Affairs and Minister of Oil, the Engineer Hayan Abdul-Ghani Al-Sawad, confirmed the Ministry's commitment to maximizing the country's oil and gas reserves to develop the national economy and enhance Iraq's international position in global markets.
This was during his sponsorship and attendance of the signing ceremony for a 2D seismic survey contract for "Al-Qarnain" exploration block between the Oil Exploration Company and Al-Qarnain Petroleum Company, a subsidiary of the Chinese Zhenhua Oil Company.
The Minister stated that the exploration block is one of the most promising border blocks for oil and gas, and that the Chinese Zhenhua Oil Company won the development bid in the fifth supplementary licensing round. He noted that the Chinese company will drill four exploratory wells.
The Minister indicated that the exploration block is part of the MDOC Company's operations, therefore we urge it to follow up the implementation of these contracts to maximize the country's resources.
The signing ceremony was attended by the Deputies of the Ministry for Distribution, Upstream, and Gas Affairs, and the Director General of the relevant companies and directorates of the Ministry.
The Deputy of the Ministry for Upstream Affairs, Mr. Bassim M. Khudhair, stated that signing the contract is significant for the Ministry, as it affirms the Ministry's policy and strategy in supporting national effort companies. The Oil Exploration Company is a national company, and is a key pillar in implementing 2D & 3D surveys and preparing field studies for exploration blocks. He noted that the Oil Exploration Company has implemented many similar projects with high efficiency.
The Director General of Oil Exploration Company, Mr. Osama R. Hussain, stated that the contract includes conducting 2D seismic surveys over an area of 2,850 km/length. He noted that Al-Qarnain block is located within the administrative borders of Najaf Governorate and is one of the blocks bordering the neighboring Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The surveys will be completed within 223 days, and the block is promising for oil and gas.
Ministry of Oil
Media and Governmental Communication Office
August 7/ 2025
