TotalEnergies and Petronas have started a $100 million to $200 million offshore exploration campaign near Kupiano in Papua New Guinea, with the Noble Viking drillship beginning operations.
The program marks a new offshore drilling phase for Papua New Guinea, with Petroleum Minister Jimmy Maladina joining project partners and stakeholders aboard Noble Viking on behalf of the National Government.
Prime Minister James Marape described the start of drilling as a sign of continued confidence in Papua New Guinea’s resource potential. The exploration campaign represents an investment commitment of $100 million to $200 million by TotalEnergies and Petronas.
The campaign comes as Papua New Guinea continues to focus on major developments, including Papua LNG and the P’nyang Gas Project. Marape said continued exploration remains necessary to support future discoveries, new projects, employment and long-term revenue opportunities.
The government also linked the program to the need for a stable and competitive investment environment, particularly for deep-water exploration, which requires major capital, advanced technology, and long-term confidence.
Papua New Guinea’s National Government said it would continue working with industry partners to support resource development while encouraging further exploration and investment across the country.
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