Iraqi Oil Ministry Commences Drilling First Exploratory Well in North Since 1978

Iraq's Ministry of Oil announced on Saturday that technical and engineering staff from the Iraqi Drilling Company have commenced drilling a new exploratory well in the Ammerli district of Salah al-Din Governorate. This project is being executed under a tripartite agreement involving North Oil Company, Iraqi Drilling Company, and Oil Exploration Company. This well is the first of its kind in the northern governorates since 1978. The step comes within the Ministry's directives to revitalize exploration work and develop promising areas, aiming to enhance hydrocarbon reserves and increase national reserves. Oil Minister, Basim Mohammad Khudair, affirmed the Ministry's commitment to its exploratory programs aimed at bolstering hydrocarbon reserves. He pointed out that drilling this well represents a significant milestone for reactivating exploration in promising regions after a long period of hiatus. The Minister added that the Ministry adopts an expansive vision for drilling wells and leveraging geological and geophysical data. This supports oil and gas reserves, ensuring resources for developmental and economic plans in the country. Khudair noted that the project reflects the coordination among national oil entities (North Oil, Iraqi Drilling, and Exploration Companies) to achieve the Ministry's objectives of maximizing hydrocarbon wealth and its optimal utilization. The Ministry confirmed its ongoing commitment to expanding exploratory activities in various promising areas. These efforts will replenish national reserves with new discoveries, enhance economic sustainability, and strengthen Iraq's position in the global oil and gas sector.