France’s TotalEnergies said in a statement on Tuesday that it would launch offshore gas exploration activities in Block 9 in Lebanese waters after an agreement was reached on the maritime borders between Lebanon and Israel last October.
The French multinational integrated energy and petroleum company issued a statement saying it will be the operator of the exploration in Block 9 and that it has a 60% interest alongside its partner ENI, which has 40%.
The statement added that following the signing of this agreement, the partners will begin the operations in Block 9, in a potentially gas-containing area, which has already been identified and may extend into both Block 9 and Israeli waters.
It also stated that the preparation for exploration activities is now beginning by equipping teams, purchasing the required equipment, and acquiring a drilling rig.
“By bringing our expertise in offshore exploration, we will respond to the request of both countries to assess the materiality of hydrocarbon resources and production potential in this area,” said Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of TotalEnergies.
