Headlines Afren and Eni spud Nunya-1X well in Keta Block, offshore Ghana Monday, February 6, 2012 Afren has announced that operator Eni Ghana has commenced drilling of the Nunya-1X exploration well on the Keta Block, located offshore Ghana. Iraq-Turkey oil exports resume after blast Monday, February 6, 2012 Iraq has resumed oil exports via an undamaged pipeline to Turkey after they were cut by an explosion in the country's northern neighbour, officials said on Monday. Harvest Natural Resources Updates Drilling Operations - Qarn Alam Block 64, Oman Monday, February 6, 2012 Harvest Natural Resources, Inc. announced that the Al Ghubar North-1 (AGN-1) exploration well onshore Oman has reached a total depth (TD) of 10,482 feet. Technip awarded two contracts for the Jubilee project in Ghana Monday, February 6, 2012 Technip was awarded by Tullow Ghana Limited two contracts, worth approximately €100 million, for the Phase 1A of the Jubilee project. The Jubilee field is located offshore Ghana at a water depth of 1,300 meters. Militants claim attack on Nigeria Eni oil pipeline Sunday, February 5, 2012 A Nigerian militant group based in the oil-producing Niger Delta said on Sunday it had attacked an oil pipeline owned by Italian firm Eni where witnesses said there was a fire late on Saturday. Aramco to invest $90b in boosting refining capacity Sunday, February 5, 2012 Saudi Aramco will invest $90 billion in the next five years to increase refining capacity by 50 percent to 6 million barrels a day. Tullow 'Could Double Production' in 5 Years after Ugandan Deal Sunday, February 5, 2012 The news that the Ugandan government has finally awarded the U.K. oil firm three production licenses brings "extra flexibility" to its balance sheet Gulf Keystone Cleared for Algeria Stake Sale Sunday, February 5, 2012 Gulf Keystone announced that all required documentation has been executed and all necessary Government approvals obtained pursuant to the agreement between the Company and BG Group, the Operator, providing for the transfer of the Company's right, title and interest for no consideration in the Hassi Ba Hamou (HBH) Permit to the Operator and Sonatrach. NYMEX-U.S. crude drops toward $97 on oil stocks data Thursday, February 2, 2012 U.S. crude oil prices slipped towards $97 a barrel on Thursday as a larger-than-expected rise in crude oil stocks outweighed support from upbeat manufacturing data in China, the United States and Germany. Petrobras Launches $7B Bond Deal Thursday, February 2, 2012 Brazilian state-run Petroleo Brasileiro, or Petrobras, completed its four-tranche $7 billion bond deal in the U.S. credit markets Wednesday, according to a person familiar with the deal. DNO hits Pehkabir pay Thursday, February 2, 2012 DNO International has reported oil shows at the Pehkabir-1 exploration well in Iraqi Kurdistan, although analysts believe the commerciality of the discovery is ''uncertain''. Saudi energy investment at $141b in 5 years biggest in MENA region Thursday, February 2, 2012 Saudi Arabia remained the dominant energy investor in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with an estimated $141 billion during 2012-2016, data from the Dammam-based Arab Petroleum Investment Corporation (Apicorp), an affiliate of the 10-nation Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries, showed. Saudi Arabia Names Candidate to Head OPEC Wednesday, February 1, 2012 Saudi Arabia has nominated its candidate to succeed the current head of the Organization Petroleum Exporting Countries, Gulf oil sources said Tuesday, potentially reviving a scramble for influence within the producers' group. Judge: BP Must Cover Some Halliburton Damages for Macondo Wednesday, February 1, 2012 U.S. District Judge Carl Barbier on Tuesday upheld Halliburton's claim that its contract with BP requires BP to defend and indemnify Halliburton against any and all claims related to a blowout or uncontrolled well condition and relating to pollution and/or contamination from the reservoir. Explosion rocks Syrian oil pipeline Wednesday, February 1, 2012 Fire engulfed a crude oil pipeline in Syria following an explosion on Tuesday, a report has claimed. South Sudan shuts output Tuesday, January 31, 2012 South Sudan has totally shut down oil output in a row with Sudan over export transit fees and will only restart after the two reach a deal covering border security and the disputed Abyei region. Gulfsands' Syrian Appraisal Well Confirms 19.2 Million Barrels Tuesday, January 31, 2012 Gulfsands Petroleum reported Tuesday that results from its Khurbet East 102 Triassic appraisal well fit with initial estimates that volumes from the Butmah Formation amount to 19.2 million barrels of oil equivalent. Iraq delays 4th energy round to May 30-31 Tuesday, January 31, 2012 Iraq has delayed its 4th energy bidding round to May 30-31, when 12 new gas and oil exploration blocks will be auctioned to international energy firms, a senior oil official said on Monday. Dana Gas achieves 220% increase in net profits in 2011 Monday, January 30, 2012 Dana Gas PJSC the Middle East's largest regional private sector natural gas company, has announced its preliminary financial results for the year ended 31st December 2011. Iran Parliament Drafts Law to Ban Oil Sales to Europe Sunday, January 29, 2012 Iran's parliament drafted legislation calling for the government to halt oil exports to Europe until the European Union cancels its planned ban on the country's crude, Fars news agency reported, citing a lawmaker. Tonen buys 99 percent of refinery stake from ExxonMobil Sunday, January 29, 2012 Japan's second largest refiner TonenGeneral Sekiyu KK (5012.T) said on Sunday it will buy 99 percent of the shares in ExxonMobil's (XOM.N) Japanese unit, ExxonMobil Yugen Kaisha, for 302 billion yen ($3.94 billion) to improve efficiency. S. Sudan oil shutdown continues after talks fail Saturday, January 28, 2012 The presidents of Sudan and South Sudan failed Friday to resolve an oil dispute that has led to the shutdown of the South's crude output and threatened both countries' economies. Sudan says to release ships seized from S.Sudan Saturday, January 28, 2012 Sudan said on Saturday it would free tankers carrying cargoes of South Sudanese crude it had seized earlier this month, in a push to defuse a row over transit fees between former civil war foes that both depend on oil for almost all their income. Iran Says It May Cut Off Its Oil Exports to Europe Friday, January 27, 2012 Iran struck a combative tone Thursday in its confrontation with the West over the nuclear issue, threatening to terminate oil exports to European nations even before their embargo takes effect this summer. BP fails to shift $15 billion oil spill costs onto Transocean Friday, January 27, 2012 Oil giant BP has lost its attempt to shift over $15 billion (9 billion pounds) of costs related to the Gulf of Mexico oil spill onto contractor Transocean, increasing the possibility BP may have to foot the entire $42 billion clean up bill. Chevron to face charges over Brazil spill Friday, January 27, 2012 A Brazilian prosecutor plans to file criminal charges against Chevron Corp and some of its local managers within weeks, adding the threat of prison sentences to an $11 billion civil lawsuit as punishment for a November offshore oil spill. Sudan and South Sudan leaders bid to defuse oil dispute Friday, January 27, 2012 The presidents of Sudan and South Sudan are meeting in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa to discuss a deepening crisis over sharing their oil wealth Iraq, Shell New Venture to Boost Gas Output in 2012 Friday, January 27, 2012 A joint venture between Iraq, Royal Dutch Shell plc and Mitsubishi Corp. to capture and process huge volumes of gas flared from its giant southern oil fields is expected to start production this year, a senior Iraqi oil ministry official said here Thursday. Libyan oil output hits 1.3 million bpd: NOC Friday, January 27, 2012 Oil production in Libya has reached 1.3 million barrels per day, the state-owned National Oil Corporation said Thursday, as the North African nation eyes a return to its output before Moamer Kadhafi's ouster. Aminex provides update on Ntorya-1 well onshore Tanzania Friday, January 27, 2012 Aminex has announced a further update on drilling of the Ntorya-1 exploration well in the Ruvuma Basin onshore in Tanzania. The well was spudded on the 22 December 2011 and has been drilled to 1,535 metres where an intermediate casing string has been set. Conoco Quarterly Profit Rises 66%; Company Plans to Cut Natural-Gas Output Thursday, January 26, 2012 ConocoPhillips (COP) reported fourth- quarter profit that surpassed analysts' estimates as the producer said it plans to idle some natural-gas wells because of low prices and focus on boosting output of petroleum liquids such as crude. Iraq, Lukoil Award $998M West Qurna Deal to Samsung Thursday, January 26, 2012 Iraq and Russia's OAO Lukoil Holding have awarded a $998 million deal to south Korea's Samsung Group to develop the supergiant West Qurna phase 2 oil field, the Iraqi government said in a statement Wednesday. Brent rises above $110 as Fed vows low interest rates Thursday, January 26, 2012 Brent crude rose above $110 on Thursday, extending gains on hopes of demand growth revival after the U.S. Federal Reserve said it would keep interest rates low for much longer than previously planned, to help speed economic recovery. ExxonMobil laying groundwork in Kurdistan Thursday, January 26, 2012 ExxonMobil, the first supermajor to move into Iraqi Kurdistan, is quietly mobilising in Arbil despite strenuous objections from the central government, according to a report. Libya production increases to 1.3 million barrels per day Thursday, January 26, 2012 Oil production in the country has now resumed following the eight-month war. India and Pakistan announce joint energy initiatives Thursday, January 26, 2012 India and Pakistan on Wednesday announced several initiatives to accelerate cooperation in the oil and gas sector, as the two energy-starved nuclear-armed neighbours try to mend economic ties despite political differences. Gulf Keystone Petroleum provides operational update in Kurdistan Tuesday, January 24, 2012 Gulf Keystone provides an update on its ongoing exploration and appraisal programme in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, which includes the Shaikan block, a major discovery with independently audited gross oil-in-place volumes of between 8 billion barrels to 13.4 billion barrels calculated on the P90 to P10 basis with a mean value of 10.5 billion barrels. Kuwait's crude oil exports to China jump 58.9 percent Tuesday, January 24, 2012 Kuwait's crude oil exports to China surged 58.9 percent in December 2011 from a year earlier to 853,000 tons, equivalent to around 202,000 barrels per day (bpd), for the first gain in two months, latest official data showed. Australia joins EU in banning Iranian oil imports Tuesday, January 24, 2012 Australia has joined the EU in banning imports of Iranian oil and imposing a range of heavy sanctions amid threats of retaliatory military action by Tehran. San Leon Energy completes Morocco 2D seismic campaign Tuesday, January 24, 2012 San Leon Energy has completed the acquisition of more than 2,280 km of 2D seismic across its Tarfaya and Zag Licences onshore Morocco. The data was acquired by San Leon Energy's wholly owned subsidiary, NovaSeis. EU bans Iranian oil, Tehran responds with threats Monday, January 23, 2012 The European Union banned imports of oil from Iran on Monday and imposed a number of other economic sanctions, joining the United States in a new round of measures aimed at deflecting Tehran's nuclear development programme. S.Sudan says Sudan seized oil worth $815 million Monday, January 23, 2012 South Sudan President Salva Kiir accused Sudan on Monday of seizing $815 million worth of its crude oil in a row over how to share oil revenues between the former civil war foes. Halliburton Profit Grows as U.S. Fracking Surges Monday, January 23, 2012 Halliburton Co., the world's largest provider of hydraulic fracturing services, said fourth-quarter profit rose as customers boosted spending on the technique for capturing oil in the U.S. Apache to Buy Cordillera Energy for $2.85 Billion to Add Anadarko Reserves Monday, January 23, 2012 Apache Corp. agreed to buy closely held Cordillera Energy Partners III LLC for $2.85 billion in cash and stock, adding oil reserves in Oklahoma and Texas that can be exploited using hydraulic fracturing. Shell to Spend Nearly $1B on Offshore Nova Scotia Oil Exploration Saturday, January 21, 2012 Royal Dutch Shell PLC said Friday it will spend nearly 986.78 million (C$1 billion) on deepwater oil exploration off the coast of Nova Scotia. Schlumberger 4Q Net Up 36% As Revenue Rises Saturday, January 21, 2012 Schlumberger Ltd.'s fourth-quarter earnings rose 36% as a global drilling frenzy continued despite fears about the global economy. South Sudan 'to shut oil production' Saturday, January 21, 2012 South Sudan has accused neighbouring Sudan of ''looting'' its oil and has threatened to begin shutting-in production over the next fortnight as the pair continues to row over oil payments, a report claims. Oil falls on economic, demand concerns Saturday, January 21, 2012 Friday, pressured by economic uncertainty ahead of a possible debt deal in Greece, concerns about China's sluggish manufacturing sector and weak U.S. petroleum demand. Italy Eni, Spain Repsol quit Saudi gas hunt Saturday, January 21, 2012 Italy's Eni and Spain's Repsol have given up looking for gas in Saudi Arabia's Empty Quarter, two sources familiar with the joint venture with Saudi Aramco said. ENI Libya oil output 'close to pre-war level' Saturday, January 21, 2012 Output by Italian oil giant ENI, the top producer of Libyan crude, has nearly reached its levels prior to the war last year that ousted Moamer Kadhafi, its chief Paolo Scaroni said Saturday. South Sudan to build crude pipe thru E Africa Saturday, January 21, 2012 South Sudan is planning to construct an oil refinery and a crude oil export pipeline through East Africa with the help of international oil companies operating in its fields, China's state-run Xinhua news agency reported on Saturday. China urges "restraint" in Sudan oil transit dispute Saturday, January 21, 2012 China, the biggest investor in oilfields in the new nation of South Sudan, called for "calm and restraint" as a transit fee dispute threatened to cut off crude exports from the African producer. KNOC's Dana Petroleum Looks to Expand in West Africa to Double Oil Output Thursday, January 19, 2012 Dana Petroleum Plc, the U.K. explorer acquired by Korea National Oil Corp (KNOCP). in 2010, plans to expand in west Africa as it seeks to double production over the next five years. Obama administration rejects Keystone oil pipeline Thursday, January 19, 2012 The Obama administration on Wednesday rejected the Keystone crude oil pipeline project, a decision welcomed by environmental groups but blasted by the domestic energy industry. Adnoc signs CNPC deal Thursday, January 19, 2012 United Arab Emirates-owned Abu Dhabi National Oil Company has signed a deal with China National Petroleum Corporation to collaborate in upstream projects in undeveloped areas. OPEC Keeps Oil Demand Forecast Steady, Warns on European Economic Crisis Tuesday, January 17, 2012 The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries kept its forecast for 2012 oil demand unchanged, while warning that Europe's debt crisis could harm global consumption. Dana Gas Promises to Honor Debt Payments Amid Concern on $1 Billion Sukuk Tuesday, January 17, 2012 Dana Gas (DANA) PJSC said it will honor debt obligations as the United Arab Emirates-based energy company faces a $1 billion Islamic bond maturing in October. South Korea frets as U.S. ups oil pressure on Iran Tuesday, January 17, 2012 South Korea, a key U.S. ally, warned the United States on Tuesday it would be difficult to replace Iranian crude supplies and expressed concern that sanctions pressure could lead to higher oil prices. Saudi says can pump more fast, favors $100 oil Tuesday, January 17, 2012 Saudi Arabia, the world's top oil exporter, said on Monday it can pump more oil at a moment's notice, the day after Iran warned Gulf oil producers not to compensate for any disruption to Iranian output. Chevron Confirms Fire Incident on Rig Offshore Nigeria Tuesday, January 17, 2012 Chevron Corporation reports that its subsidiary, Chevron Nigeria Limited, is working to contain a fire that ignited early this morning aboard the K.S. Endeavor, a drilling rig offshore Nigeria operated by FODE Drilling Nigeria Limited. Afren announces a new oil discovery offshore south east Nigeria Tuesday, January 17, 2012 Afren plc announces that the Okoro East exploration well, offshore south east Nigeria, has made a new oil discovery having encountered 549 ft true vertical thickness (TVT) of net oil pay and 41 ft of net gas pay in excellent quality reservoir sands. Anadarko Announces Another Major Appraisal Success Offshore Mozambique Tuesday, January 17, 2012 Anadarko Petroleum Corporation today announced its seventh well in the discovery area offshore Mozambique successfully appraised previous discoveries at Lagosta and Camarao. The Lagosta-2 appraisal well, located about 4.4 miles (7 kilometers) north of the Lagosta discovery and 5.3 miles (8.5 kilometers) south of the Camarao well, encountered 777 total net feet (237 meters) of natural gas pay in multiple zones. Tethys hits low oil flow in Oman Tuesday, January 17, 2012 Tethys Oil is not giving up on a portion of a block in Oman despite failing to find commercial oil flows with its latest exploration well. Petronas to continue in South Sudan Monday, January 16, 2012 Malaysia's state-run oil company Petronas has signed a transition agreement with the government of the Republic of South Sudan to allow it to continue operations on blocks previously awarded by the Republic of Sudan. Nigeria protests suspended after fuel price cut Monday, January 16, 2012 Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan said on Monday petrol prices would be reduced to 97 naira ($0.60) a litre and labour unions agreed to suspend mass protests to allow further negotiations with the government. North confiscates South Sudan oil Monday, January 16, 2012 Sudan said it has started confiscating some oil exports from South Sudan it believes it is owed to meet unpaid transit fees but will not shut down a pipeline carrying the southern state's oil. Oil explorer Soco eyes bid targets over $100 mln Monday, January 16, 2012 Soco International has told investors it is examining acquisition opportunities in south east Asia, West Africa and Egypt worth in excess of $100 million, suggesting it is targeting more ambitious projects than in the past. Brent rises above $111 as Iran warns Gulf exporters Monday, January 16, 2012 Brent crude rose above $111 on Monday on worries over supply disruptions after Iran warned Gulf Arab neighbours of consequences if they raised oil output to replace Iranian barrels facing international sanctions. China's Wen presses Saudi Arabia for oil access Sunday, January 15, 2012 Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao pressed Saudi Arabia to open its huge oil and gas resources to expanded Chinese investment, media reports said on Sunday against a backdrop of growing tension over Iran and worries over its crude exports to the Asian power. Iran warns Gulf countries not to replace its oil Sunday, January 15, 2012 Iran warned its Arab neighbors on Sunday not to raise crude output to replace Iranian oil in the event of an embargo by the European Union, Tehran's OPEC Governor Mohammad Ali Khatibi was quoted as saying. Nigerian strike talks fail to reach fuel price deal Sunday, January 15, 2012 Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan and labor unions failed to reach a compromise over government-subsidized fuel prices, but the unions said oil workers would not shut down crude output while the two sides kept talking. South Korean PM in Oman to discuss oil Sunday, January 15, 2012 South Korean Prime Minister Kim Hwang-sik has arrived in Oman to 'discuss energy issues,' as the country seeks to lower its dependence on Iranian oil in the face of tightening US sanctions. China's Wen to Juggle Iran Oil Need With Saudi Ties on Persian Gulf Trip Saturday, January 14, 2012 China's Wen Jiabao must balance his country's need for Iranian crude with its budding energy partnership with Saudi Arabia on his first visit to the Gulf kingdom, a U.S.-based specialist in Middle East security said. South Sudan Signs First Oil Deals Since Independence Saturday, January 14, 2012 South Sudan signed its first oil deals with foreign nations since it won independence last July, inking agreements with Chinese, Indian and Malaysian firms, officials said. Nigerian unions to meet president over fuel strike Saturday, January 14, 2012 Nigerian unions were to meet President Goodluck Jonathan on Saturday to try to defuse a row over the removal of fuel subsidies that has paralysed the economy and raised fears of a shutdown of its oil industry. Iran says not storing oil in Gulf due to sanctions Saturday, January 14, 2012 Iran has not stored oil on tankers in the Gulf, and its crude exports have not been disrupted due to mounting international pressure over its disputed nuclear program, an oil official told the semi-official Mehr news agency on Saturday. Inpex, Total Green Lights $34B Australian LNG Project Saturday, January 14, 2012 Inpex and Total have given the green light to build one of Australia's most expensive energy projects at an estimated cost of US $34 billion over the next five years. Statoil 'may exit West Qurna 2' Saturday, January 14, 2012 Statoil reportedly may be looking to dispose of its stake in the West Qurna 2 field development project in Iraq as security in the country deteriorates following the withdrawal of US forces amid escalating political tensions. Oil Falls to Lowest Level in Three Weeks on Plans to Delay Iranian Embargo Saturday, January 14, 2012 Oil dropped to a three-week low after two European Union officials said an embargo on Iranian crude imports may be postponed for six months. Saipem awarded E&C onshore contracts worth approximately $600 million in Saudi Arabia Friday, January 13, 2012 In December, Saipem has been awarded in Saudi Arabia, by SABIC affiliate Safco (Saudi Arabian Fertilizer Company), the lump sum turnkey contract for the project ''Safco V''. Nigerian Union Threatens to Stop Oil Production Sunday Friday, January 13, 2012 A major Nigeria oil workers' union Thursday threatened to halt production from Sunday if the government doesn't reinstate fuel subsidies, heightening the potential for a disruption of oil shipments from Africa's largest oil exporter. OMV Touts 60% Pre-War Level Production in Libya Friday, January 13, 2012 Austrian energy giant OMV said Thursday its oil production in Libya now stands at 60% of the pre-war level, up from 30% in November. Circle Oil completes Morocco pipeline Tuesday, January 10, 2012 AIM-listed Circle Oil has announced it has completed a pipeline in Morocco to deliver gas it discovered in the past four years in the Rharb Basin to local industry. RAK Petroleum and DNO International Complete Merger Tuesday, January 10, 2012 Ras Al Khaimah, UAE -- RAK Petroleum Public Company Limited today announced that it has completed the merger of its Middle East-North Africa operating subsidiaries into Norway's DNO International ASA. Oil Advances for First Day in Four on Iranian Dispute, Euro Debt Meeting Tuesday, January 10, 2012 Oil rose in New York for the first time in four days on growing concern that the dispute between Iran and western governments may lead to a disruption in Middle East crude exports. Libya to Revisit Oil Contracts Monday, January 9, 2012 Some of Libya's oil contracts will be reviewed by the country's new government, former interim prime minister Ali Tarhouni said, putting scores of foreign firms on notice. Dana Petroleum awarded new North Sea acreage Monday, January 9, 2012 Dana Petroleum plc in a 50/50 partnership with Sorgenia E&P (UK) Ltd has secured blocks 42/27, 47/2b (split) and 47/3g (split) in the UK Southern North Sea, in the final stage of the 26th round of UK offshore licensing. Technip awarded two-year extension of Statoil Frame Contract for Subsea Services Monday, January 9, 2012 Technip was awarded the last option for the Statoil frame contract for diving, pipeline repair, contingency and modification services. The frame contract has been held by Technip since January 2007 and is now extended to the latest possible completion date of December 2014. Court Ruling Seeks to Bar National Strike in Nigeria Monday, January 9, 2012 A Nigerian court on Friday issued an order seeking to block nationwide indefinite strikes planned by the labor unions against soaring petrol prices. EU oil ban 'looms for Iran' Monday, January 9, 2012 The European Union (EU) has agreed on a ban on imports of Iranian crude oil but has yet to hammer out a timeframe, according to reports. Statoil makes Havis oil find Monday, January 9, 2012 Statoil has found oil in the PL532 licence in the Barents Sea, with a recoverable oil volume estimate of between 200 and 300 million barrels. Hormuz Bypass Oil Pipeline Is Delayed Monday, January 9, 2012 A pipeline that would allow oil from the United Arab Emirates to bypass the Strait of Hormuz separating it from Iran has been delayed because of construction difficulties, two people with knowledge of the matter said. Nigerian Workers Start Strike That May Disrupt Oil Exports Monday, January 9, 2012 Nigerian workers began a national strike after fuel costs more than doubled, threatening to shut ports and disrupt output from Royal Dutch Shell Plc and Chevron Corp. in Africa’s largest crude producer. South Sudan President Accuses Khartoum of Stealing Its Oil Wednesday, January 4, 2012 The president of South Sudan Salva Kiir accused the Sudanese government of stealing his country's oil in a new sign of escalation between the two ex-foes. KPC announces LNG prices for January Wednesday, January 4, 2012 The Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPCKPC) announced Tuesday the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) prices - propane and butane - for January. Libya's al-Sedr oil port resumes operations Wednesday, January 4, 2012 Libya's al-Sedr oil port has resumed operations and will see the first oil shipment sail on Tuesday or earlier, an official from Waha Oil Co said, months after the terminal stopped running during a civil war that ended Muammar Gaddafi's rule. Indonesia to raise Tangguh gas price to $5-$7 Wednesday, January 4, 2012 Indonesia wants to as much as double the price for gas it sells from its Tangguh liquefied natural gas plant to China National Offshore Oil Corp's (CNOOC) Fujian LNG terminal, oil and gas regulator BPMigas said on late Monday. Petrobras announces discovery of new natural gas and light oil accumulation in Espirito Santo Wednesday, January 4, 2012 Petrobras announces the discovery of a new light oil and natural gas accumulation in the Golfinho Concession (4-BRSA-1001-ESS). The discovery was made during drilling of well 4-GLF-31-ESS, known as Tambuata. The well is located 74 km off the Espírito Santo coast, and 7 km from FPSO Cidade de Vitoria, in the eastern side of Golfinho Field, at a water depth of 1,520 meters. BP provides to exit Sakhalin-5 gas project Wednesday, January 4, 2012 BP PLC is to exit the Sakhalin-5 gas project, and Russian state oil company OAO Rosneft will continue working on it on its own, Interfax news agency reported Monday, citing Rosneft Chief Executive Eduard Khudainatov. Total expands its position in the USA - enters the Utica Shale formation in Ohio Wednesday, January 4, 2012 Total announces that its subsidiary, Total E&P USA, has signed and completed on December 30, 2011 an agreement to enter into a Joint Venture with Chesapeake Exploration, a subsidiary of Chesapeake Energy Corp, and affiliates of its partner EnerVest. In the agreement, Total acquires a 25% share in Chesapeake's and EnerVest's liquids-rich area of the Utica shale play located across 10 counties on the eastern side of the state of Ohio, USA. BP Seeks Recovery of All Gulf Spill Costs From Halliburton Wednesday, January 4, 2012 BP Plc seeks to have Halliburton Co., its cement contractor for the Macondo well project whose blowout set off the 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil spill, pay all of the oil company's related costs and damages. Crude Oil Falls From Near Eight-Month High on European Economic Concerns Wednesday, January 4, 2012 Oil fell from its highest settlement in almost eight months on signs that Europe's debt crisis may drag the region into a recession, curbing fuel consumption. Nigeria: No More Petrol Subsidy From Today - PPPRA Tuesday, January 3, 2012 The Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) announced the full withdrawal of subsidies from Petrol (Premium Motor Spirit). South Sudan: Unity State Oil Field Catches Fire Tuesday, January 3, 2012 Bentiu- Part of an oil field in South Sudan's oil-rich Unity State caught fire on Wednesday causing a decline in production, according to local officials. Saudi Aramco drilling-rigs count to jump 12% in 2012 Tuesday, January 3, 2012 Saudi Arabian Oil Co plans to increase its drilling-rig count by 12 percent next year to 145 to boost natural-gas and oil output from its Manifa field, a former executive of state-run company said. Iran ratchets up pressure on Kuwait over gas field Tuesday, January 3, 2012 Iran said on Sunday that it would launch full-scale unilateral development of the disputed offshore Arash gas field in the Gulf if Kuwait does not respond to its offer of joint development, according to the official IRNA news agency. Qatar says Q3 nominal GDP rose by 40% on gas output Tuesday, January 3, 2012 Qatar, the world's biggest exporter of liquefied natural gas, said its nominal gross domestic product increased an annual 40 percent on expanding gas output. China begins scramble for Afghanistan's oil reserves Tuesday, January 3, 2012 State-owned China National Petroleum Corp (CNPC) was given approval by the Afghan government to sign the joint-venture deal with diversifiedAfghan company, the Watan Group. Frontline completes restructuring Tuesday, January 3, 2012 Frontline, the largest independent global oil tanker operator, completed its restructuring with the help of Norwegian tycoon John Fredriksen, a key step in its revival as the industry struggles with weak demand and overcapacity. Russia 2011 oil output at new post-Soviet record high Tuesday, January 3, 2012 Oil output in Russia edged up 1.2 percent to reach a new post-Soviet high of 10.27 million barrels per day (bpd) last year, as the world's top crude producer eased tax burden and launched pipeline flows to China, the Energy Ministry said on Monday. Exxon Mobil: $908 M awarded in Venezuela dispute Tuesday, January 3, 2012 An international arbitration body has awarded Exxon Mobil Corp. nearly $908 million in a dispute with Venezuela over compensation for the nationalization of its assets, the company said Sunday. Dana Gas Bond Yield Jumps Most in Two Weeks Ahead of Meeting Tuesday, January 3, 2012 The yield on Dana Gas (DANA) PJSC's Islamic bonds maturing in October climbed the most in two weeks ahead of a planned company board meeting tomorrow. Cyprus Gas Find Worth Tens of Billions Monday, January 2, 2012 Cyprus has approximately $129 billion (EUR 100 billion) worth of natural gas that will satisfy its electricity production needs for 210 years, said Commerce Minister Praxoulla Antoniadou. Eni eyes full Libyan output by June Monday, January 2, 2012 The chief executive of Italian giant Eni said the company expected to return to full capacity in Libya by June of next year. Tethys Oil: new wells and new oil discovery on Block 3 onshore Sultanate Of Oman Thursday, December 15, 2011 The drilling program onshore Block 3 in the Sultanate of Oman continues. On the Farha trend, the FS-17 well encountered yet another oil bearing fault block. Four additional production wells have also been drilled on the Farha South oil field. Outside the Farha trend on Block 3, the exploration well Maha-1 has spudded. Eni CEO sees $50 billion Mozambique gas investment Monday, November 14, 2011 Italian oil and gas company Eni will invest $50 billion developing its huge Mozambique natural gas discovery with a view to exporting the gas to Asian markets, its Chief Executive Paolo Scaroni said in an interview Friday after a visit to East Africa. El Paso Kicks Off Sale of Exploration and Production Assets Sunday, November 13, 2011 El Paso Corp. has begun sending out financial information to potential buyers of its oil-and-gas exploration and production business, which could fetch as much as $10 billion, according to people familiar with the matter. Huge gas find by Eni off Mozambique Thursday, November 10, 2011 Eni has announced a ''giant natural gas discovery'' offshore Mozambique at the Mamba South 1 prospect in Offshore Area 4. The discovery well found 212 m (695 ft) of continuous gas play in Oligocene sands. Apache Reports Record Quarterly Production of 752,000 Boe/d Saturday, November 5, 2011 Apache Corporation reported production of 752,000 barrels of oil equivalent (boe) per day and earnings of $983 million, or $2.50 per diluted share, for the three-month period ending Sept. 30, 2011. These compare with production of 667,000 boe per day and net income of $765 million, or $2.12 per diluted share, for the same period in the prior year. Eni announces a giant gas discovery offshore Mozambique Sunday, October 23, 2011 Eni announces a giant natural gas discovery at the Mamba South 1 prospect, in the Area 4 Offshore Mozambique. The discovery well encountered a total of 212 meters of continuous gas pay in high-quality Oligocene sands. Wintershall Restarts Production at Libyan Desert Wednesday, October 19, 2011 Wintershall has now restarted oil production in the Libyan Desert again in concessions 96 and 97. The company had suspended and sealed off production operations in the eight onshore oil fields around 1,000 kilometers south-east of Tripoli in February 2011 in view of the political situation and for security reasons. Iraq signs final gas deal with South Korea's KOGAS for Akkas gas field Monday, October 17, 2011 Iraq's oil ministry and South Korea's KOGAS on Thursday signed a long-delayed deal to develop the Akkas gas field near the Syrian border, the latest step by the war-ravaged country to tap its own resources to fuel growing power demands. Russia's Putin says to cooperate with Japan on LNG, electricity Monday, October 17, 2011 Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has told his Japanese counterpart Yoshihiko Noda that Moscow hopes to advance energy cooperation with Tokyo in areas including LNG and possible electricity supplies to the gas- and power- hungry nation, according to Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. BP gets $4bn from Anadarko for oil spill costs Monday, October 17, 2011 BP Plc has accepted a $4 billion payment from partner Anadarko Petroleum towards the Gulf of Mexico oil spill clean-up, far less than it might have won in court, but a deal that could reduce the overall cost of the disaster for the British group. Iran to Develop Six New Persian Gulf Offshore Natural Gas Fields Monday, October 17, 2011 The National Iranian Offshore Oil Company has announced plans to begin the development of six new offshore natural gas fields in the Persian Gulf, whose reserves are estimated at 25.7 trillion cubic feet. Sahara and Hess bidding for offshore Ghana blocks Thursday, October 13, 2011 Nigerian company Sahara Energy Fields and US inedendent Hess are reported to be seeking exploration and production rights over blocks offshore West Keta and East Cape Three Points. Shell drills more than 100 oil shale wells in Jordan Monday, October 10, 2011 Royal Dutch Shell has drilled more than 100 wells in Jordan in the two years since it signed a concession agreement to explore for oil from the country's vast oil shale reserves, a person familiar with the project said. Kenya to tender for LNG terminal Monday, October 10, 2011 Kenya plans to float a tender by early next year to build a liquefied natural gas terminal at its Mombasa port city as it pushes to diversify its sources of electricity to meet rising demand, a senior energy official said. Heritage Oil gains access to Libyan oil industry with acquisition of controlling interest in Sahara Oil Services Holdings Monday, October 10, 2011 Heritage Oil has acquired a controlling 51% interest in Sahara Oil Services Holdings (SOSH) which holds the necessary long term permits and licences to provide oil field services in Libya, for cash consideration of US$19.5 million. Eni To Bid For Iraq's Nassiriya Oil Field Development Thursday, September 29, 2011 Italian energy giant Eni is one of four international companies in contention for Iraq's Nassiriya oilfield. The company in a statement confirmed that it would be participating in the forthcoming auction by the Iraqi oil ministry for the Nassiriya field development. Saudi oil output at 30-year high Friday, September 16, 2011 Saudi Arabia pumped the most oil in 30 years last month as it boosted production along with other members of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries' (Opec) including Nigeria, Angola, Iraq, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates, the International Energy Agency said. Eni: Zubair field to pump 1.2 million bpd by 2017 Friday, September 16, 2011 Italian firm Eni says Iraq's Zubair oilfield will reach its peak output target of 1.2 million barrels per day (bpd) by the start of 2017, following Eni's completion of its field development plan. Technip to buy Global Industries for $1billion Monday, September 12, 2011 French subsea specialist oilfield services firm Technip is to purchase subsea construction and pipe laying specialists Global Industries for $1.07 billion. Total reveals major Caspian gas find Sunday, September 11, 2011 French supermajor Total has announced a major natural non-associated gas find in the Absheron block of the Azeri Caspian Sea. Iraq bars Hess from 4th bidding round over Kurdish deals Thursday, September 8, 2011 Iraq's Oil Ministry has excluded U.S oil firm Hess Corp from competing in its 4th bidding round because the company signed deals with Iraq's northern Kurdish region, a senior Iraqi oil official said on Monday. Hess had been among 41 companies pre-qualified by Iraq but was not included on a new list of 40 qualified firms issued on Monday. Brent oil down as rebels capture most of Tripoli Tuesday, August 23, 2011 Brent crude fell to near $106 a barrel Monday as Libyan rebels captured most of the country's capital, boosting hopes the OPEC nation's oil exports could resume soon. Total wins Tanzania oil and gas exploration bid Tuesday, August 16, 2011 Tanzania has awarded oil and gas exploration rights for the northern side of Lake Tanganyika to a subsidiary of French energy company Total SA, its state-run petroleum agency said. Iran discovers another gas field worth $133 billion Wednesday, August 10, 2011 Hydrocarbon-rich Iran has discovered another gas field with reserves of 495 billion cubic meters, valued at $133 billion, the oil ministry's SHANA news service quoted an oil official as saying Monday. Oil prices slump on global growth fears Wednesday, August 10, 2011 Oil prices have slumped over $3 per barrel - a 4% drop on the New York Mercantile Exchange - so far today on the back of worldwide growth fears and a stock market slump in the US which has spread to the UK and Asian markets. WesternZagros and Talisman agree to split the Kalar-Bawanoor PSC into two areas Sunday, August 7, 2011 WesternZagros Resources has announced that it has finalized an agreement with the Kurdistan Regional Government of Iraq (KRG) and Talisman (Block K44) B.V. to amend the original Production Sharing Contract that governed the Company's exploration activities in the Kalar-Bawanoor Block in Kurdistan. Eni makes a new hydrocarbon discovery offshore Ghana Tuesday, August 2, 2011 Eni has made a new hydrocarbon discovery offshore Ghana through the Gye Nyame 1 well, which is located in the OCTP block 50 km off the Ghanaian shoreline. Afren Pays $588 Million for Kurdish Fields, Expands From Africa Tuesday, August 2, 2011 Afren Plc (AFR), a U.K. oil and gas explorer focused on Africa, has agreed to pay $588 million for interests in two production-sharing contracts in the Kurdistan region of Iraq to expand outside the continent BG Group profits more than double on high gas prices Tuesday, July 26, 2011 BG, one of the UK's three largest gas producers, profits more than doubled in the second quarter due to high natural gas prices and increased production. South Sudan to link to Kenya oil pipeline Thursday, July 7, 2011 South Sudan plans to build a link to a pipeline in Kenya to export its oil after breaking away from the north, a minister said on Wednesday. BP Makes New Field Deal Thursday, July 7, 2011 BP plc has made a partnership agreement with Reliance to find oil and gas in the KG-D6 fields. Tullow Oil, Partners to Start Kudu Gas Development Off Namibia Wednesday, July 6, 2011 Tullow Oil Plc (TLW) and its Russian and Japanese partners expect to agree on natural-gas sales from Namibia's Kudu field this year, allowing project development to start in 2012. BP restarting production at its Plutonio field offshore Angola Monday, July 4, 2011 Production at BP's Plutonio field offshore Angola is ramping back up after several months of maintenance work, a company spokesman told Dow Jones Newswires Friday. 'Greater Plutonio has been coming back online since last week...it's coming back up to normal levels,' the spokesman said. Oil release to give relief to importers Monday, July 4, 2011 A move last week by the US and other member countries of the Paris-based International Energy Agency (IEA) to release 60 million barrels of crude oil from their strategic petroleum reserves is going to bring international crude oil prices down in the near-term and provide some relief to the beleaguered oil importing nations, say experts. China begins shale gas tendering Monday, July 4, 2011 China issued its first shale gas exploration tender with an offer of four blocks to a group of Chinese energy companies, state media reported, as the country kicks off its search for the potentially vast unconventional resource, reports Reuters. Iraq signs $1.2 bln power deal with Canada's Capgent Monday, July 4, 2011 Iraq has signed a $1.2 billion contract with Canada's Capgent to build 10 power stations with a total capacity of 1,000 megawatts in a bid to meet local demand, the country's Electricity Ministry said on Saturday. Iran Oil Minister Accuses IEA of Breaching Principles Monday, July 4, 2011 Amplifying criticism by oil producers of last week's release of oil from emergency stockpiles, Iran's oil minister Mohammad Aliabadi Monday accused the International Energy Agency of violating "principles" that limit when energy-consuming countries can tap reserves. Chariot Announce Potential of 16.1 Bbbls in Offshore Namibia Sunday, July 3, 2011 Chariot Oil & Gas Limited is pleased to announce the results from its latest independent Competent Person's Report from Netherland Sewell & Associates Inc. which reports gross P50 unrisked prospective resource volumes of 14.4 billion barrels with gross mean unrisked prospective resource potential of 16.1 Bbbls. Maersk Oil to Invest $1B In Golden Eagle Area of UK North Sea Tuesday, June 21, 2011 Maersk Oil has approved its investment of $1 billion in the Field Development Plan for the Golden Eagle Area in the UK North Sea. Dana Gas Announces 180% Increase in Net Profit Thursday, June 16, 2011 Dana Gas PJSC, the Middle East's largest regional private sector natural gas company, has announced its financial results for the quarter ended 31st March 2011, with a Net Profit after tax of AED 92 million, a 180% increase compared to the first quarter of 2010, and a 56% increase compared to the last quarter of 2010. Tethys Oil: May test production averages 2,570 bopd Thursday, June 16, 2011 Test production from the Early Production System (EPS) on Blocks 3 and 4 onshore the Sultanate of Oman continues with long term production tests on wells from both the Saiwan East oil field on Block 4 and the Farha South oil field on Block 3. Statoil's Leismer project produces one million barrels of oil Thursday, June 16, 2011 Statoil today announce that its Leismer Demonstration Project (LDP) in northern Alberta, Canada, has achieved a production milestone of one million accumulated barrels of oil. Gulf Keystone in Commissioning Phase of Oil Export Operations in Kurdistan Tuesday, June 14, 2011 Further to the announcement of 23 May 2011, Gulf Keystone is pleased to announce that currently the Company is in the commissioning phase of oil export operations from its Extended Well Test (EWT) facility close to Shaikan-1 and Shaikan-3. Harvest Natural Resources discovers oil in the pre-salt of the Dussafu Marin PSC offshore Gabon Tuesday, June 14, 2011 Harvest Natural Resources has encountered oil in the wildcat well Dussafu Ruche Marin-1 (DRM-1) drilled in the Dussafu Marin PSC, in the offshore waters of Gabon, West Africa. Sudan to offer more opportunities to Petronas Sunday, June 12, 2011 Petronas will be offered more business opportunities when the Sudanese government opens its doors for exploration of more oil blocks on the basis of strategic partnerships. BGP completes a challenging 2D seismic survey in Saudi Arabia Sunday, June 12, 2011 BGP Crew 8615 announced the completion of the S54 2D seismic acquisition contract for Saudi Aramco. Shell's Pearl gas-to-liquids project to start output within weeks Sunday, June 12, 2011 Shell will begin to produce oil products in its multi-billion dollar joint venture gas-to-liquids (GTL) project in Qatar in 'a matter of weeks,' a senior executive said on Tuesday. Saudi Aramco sees full capacity at Manifa oil field by 2014 Tuesday, June 7, 2011 Saudi Arabia's 900,000 barrels-per-day (bpd) Manifa oil field will reach full capacity by 2014, earlier than expected, state oil giant Aramco's 2010 annual review, published on Monday, showed. Dragon Oil comfirms Turkmenistan oil strike Tuesday, June 7, 2011 Dragon Oil plc, an international oil and gas exploration and production company, has announced the completion and initial testing of the Dzheitune (Lam) B/155 development well, the sixth well drilled from the Dzheitune (Lam) B platform. Iraq signs energy agreement with Turkish Petroleum Corporation Monday, June 6, 2011 Iraq, eager to supply natural gas to its overburdened power plants, has signed agreements with Korea Gas, Kuwait Energy and the Turkish Petroleum Corporation, or TPAO, to develop two gas fields. Government of Sharjah signs 23-year concession agreement with Rex Oil and Gas Monday, June 6, 2011 Under the directives of HH Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, Member of the UAE Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, the Government of Sharjah, represented by the Sharjah Petroleum Council, has signed a concession agreement with international oil company Rex Oil and Gas Limited for oil and gas exploration and drilling in Sharjah's Eastern offshore concession. Eni and PetroSA sign Memorandum of Understanding for co-operation in South Africa and abroad Monday, June 6, 2011 Eni signed with South Africa's State-owned oil company PetroSA (Petroleum Oil and Gas Corporation of South Africa) a Memorandum of Understanding establishing mutual co-operation between the companies in the country and abroad. OMV announces oil discovery at its Bina Bawi-3 well in Kurdistan Monday, June 6, 2011 OMV, the leading energy Group in Central and Southeastern Europe, informs about a drilling success in its operated Bina Bawi block in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Circle Commences Surveying Work at Moroccan Permits Sunday, June 5, 2011 Circle announced the commencement of surveying work and mobilization for the new seismic acquisition campaign within our permits in the Rharb Basin, Morocco MIDEAST STOCKS-Oil lifts Gulf markets, Egypt snaps 4-day rally Thursday, June 2, 2011 Most Gulf markets gained on Tuesday, buoyed by rising oil prices, while Egypt's main index .EGX30 halted a four-session rally, dragged by stocks to be dropped from the MSCI index. Gulfsands suspends Abu Ghazal-1 exploration well in Block 26 after encountering heavy oil Thursday, June 2, 2011 Gulfsands Petroleum plc, the oil and gas production, exploration and development company with activities in Syria, Iraq, Tunisia, Italy and the U.S.A., provides this update on operations in Syria. Gaddafi government will send representative to OPEC Thursday, June 2, 2011 The government of Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi will send a representative to next week's OPEC meeting despite the defection of top energy official Shokri Ghanem, although it is not yet ready to announce the name, government spokesman Moussa Ibrahim said. Statoil increases its presence in Indonesia Tuesday, May 24, 2011 Statoil has farmed in to three offshore exploration licenses in Indonesia, significantly expanding the presence in the country. Kenya: BG Group signs Production Sharing Contracts for offshore Blocks L10A and L10B Thursday, May 19, 2011 BG Group has signed Production Sharing Contracts with the Government of Kenya for two offshore exploration blocks - L10A and L10B. BG Group will be operator on both blocks and will hold a 40% equity interest in Block L10A and a 45% interest in Block L10B. The initial work programme consists of a commitment to acquire seismic data during an initial exploration period of two years. ExxonMobil in dispute with Nigeria over oil licence renewal Thursday, May 19, 2011 Nigeria's state oil company said on Monday that ExxonMobil has until Thursday to express its interest in three large oil-drilling licences that the U.S. energy firm says it has already been granted. UAE developing Umm Lulu oil field in Arabian Gulf Monday, May 16, 2011 Abu Dhabi Marine Operating Company (ADMA-OPCO) is developing a major new oil field about 30 km northwest of the city in the Arabian Gulf. The Umm Lulu field will be developed in stages and contains sufficient reserves to eventually reach production of more than 100,000 barrels per day. Dana Gas to consider listing in London exchange Monday, May 16, 2011 Dana Gas will consider a wide range of options, including a potential listing on the London Stock Exchange, before deciding on the approach most likely to enhance the company's value, its's chief executive told Gulf News. Taqa profit falls 47% as UK tax on North Sea rises Monday, May 16, 2011 Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (Taqa) said yesterday its net profit for the fiscal first quarter fell 47 per cent year on year to Dh152 million due to an increase in taxes on operations in the UK North Sea. Chariot Oil & Gas Announces Increase in Namibia Resources Monday, May 16, 2011 Chariot Oil & Gas Limited, the AIM listed Africa focused oil and gas exploration company, announces an increase of a further 1.5 billion barrels in its estimate of gross mean unrisked prospective resources from its Southern licence 2714A offshore Namibia. Gulfsands Petroleum Announces Oil Discovery in KHE-101, Syria Monday, May 16, 2011 Gulfsands Petroleum plc, the AIM listed oil and gas production, exploration and development company with activities in Syria, Iraq, Tunisia, Italy and the U.S.A., provides an update on operations in Syria. Iraqi Drilling Firm Starts Work in Zubair Oilfield Monday, May 16, 2011 State-run Iraqi Drilling Co has started working in the Zubair oil field under a $250 million contract to drill 23 new wells in the field, developed by Italy's ENI, the head of the firm said on Sunday. Director Idrees al-Yassiri said the two-year contract also included overhauling 63 old wells in Zubair. BP Seeks TNK Buyout to Save Rosneft Deal Monday, May 16, 2011 BP Plc is seeking to buy out its billionaire partners in Russia's third-largest oil producer, as a planned share swap with state-controlled OAO Rosneft expires today, said people with knowledge of the plans. Petronas to build $20B Malaysian oil, chemical hub Monday, May 16, 2011 Petroliam Nasional Bhd., Malaysia's state oil and gas company, will build a $20 billion refining complex bordering Singapore to benefit from increased global demand for petrochemicals and plastics. Total makes third oil discovery in deep waters offshore Angola Monday, May 9, 2011 Total announces that its subsidiary, TEPA (Block 17/06) Limited, and Sociedade Nacional de Combustíveis de Angola (Sonangol E.P.), have discovered hydrocarbons in the northeastern area of the deep offshore block 17/06. Libya: Eni and Gazprom agree to put Elephant project on hold Thursday, April 21, 2011 Gazprom CEO Alexey Miller and Eni CEO Paolo Scaroni met Wednesday in Moscow at the headquarters of the Russian company. The parties discussed the issues of bilateral cooperation in the energy sector within their Strategic Partnership Agreement. BP sues Cameron, maker of blowout preventer Thursday, April 21, 2011 On the first anniversary of the Gulf of Mexico oil spill, BP Plc on Wednesday sued Cameron International Corp for negligence, because a blowout preventer made by Cameron failed to avert the catastrophe. Total CEO: gas production in Yemen almost normal Tuesday, March 29, 2011 Total continues to produce liquefied natural gas in Yemen at close to normal levels, according to Chief Executive Christophe de Margerie. Saudi Arabia prepares rig boost Tuesday, March 29, 2011 Top oil exporter Saudi Arabia has unexpectedly called on oilfield service companies to expand its oil rig count by nearly 30% to boost output capacity, according an analyst. Libyan rebels to sell oil to Qatar Monday, March 28, 2011 A senior Libyan rebel official said Qatar had agreed to market crude produced from east Libyan fields that are no longer in the control of Muammar Gaddafi. Yemen LNG disruption fears Wednesday, March 23, 2011 Liquefied natural gas producer Yemen LNG has told customers unrest in the country could lead to supply disruptions and possible force majeure, according to a spokeswoman for leading stakeholder Total. Kulczyk Oil notes prospective resources in Syria Tuesday, March 22, 2011 Kulczyk Oil announced the results of an independent third party engineering evaluation of its resources in by RPS Energy (RPS). Statoil defies Libya call to return Tuesday, March 22, 2011 Statoil said it has no immediate plans to send workers to restart oil production in Libya, defying weekend calls by the Libyan oil head for foreign companies to return staff and resume drilling. Libya to push up oil Monday, March 21, 2011 Investors already bruised by the Japan disaster now confront military air strikes on Libya and the prospect of rising oil prices, making it likely they will postpone any bold investment decisions. Until a clearer picture emerges, they will want to steer clear of riskier assets as they recalibrate positions. OPEC may meet to assess Japan, Mideast crises Thursday, March 17, 2011 The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries may meet to assess the impact of the nuclear crisis in Japan and the ongoing unrest in the Middle East and North Africa on oil supply, said Nigeria's foreign minister. Gaddafi blasts Western oil players Wednesday, March 16, 2011 Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi slammed Western powers in a German television interview, saying Germany was the only country with a chance of doing business with Libyan oil in the future. PDO workers stage strike Wednesday, March 16, 2011 Several hundred workers at Oman's state oil company Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) staged protests at company headquarters and at least one oil and gas field, demanding higher wages. Australia calls for halt on Libya imports Tuesday, March 15, 2011 The Australian government has called on the country's refiners to avoid buying oil that could fund Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi's regime. Sidi Dhaher-1 spud delayed Tuesday, March 15, 2011 Australia-listed ADX Energy said it delayed the mobilization of the rig which was scheduled to spud the Sidi Dhaher-1 well within the Chorbane exploration permit in Tunisia. Libya seeks Italy's help with Ras Lanouf fire Tuesday, March 15, 2011 Libya's de facto oil minister says he has asked Italian oil giant Eni SpA for help in putting out a fire at an eastern oil facility that was the scene of fierce fighting between rebels and government loyalists. Baker Hughes announces revolutionary conformable Sand Control System Thursday, March 10, 2011 Baker Hughes announced that the commercial launch of its GeoForm TM conformable sand management system with shape memory polymer (SMP) technology. Algeria looks to tap vast gas reserves Thursday, March 10, 2011 Algeria is sitting on vast reserves of natural gas and is actively looking for partners to begin production by next year, said the country's oil minister. Libya forces 'bomb oil depot' Thursday, March 10, 2011 Forces loyal to Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi hit storage tanks at the oil terminal of Es Sider in the east of the country during a heavy bombardment of rebels in the area, rebel fighters said. Opec considering output boost Wednesday, March 9, 2011 Opec is in consultations regarding a potential boost in oil output but hasn't decided whether to approve one, said Kuwait's Oil Minister. BP backs off from Algeria asset sales Wednesday, March 9, 2011 BP has backed off from plans to sell assets in Algeria, the country's energy minister said, a blow to potential Russian buyer TNK-BP Ltd. but a vote of confidence for the nation amid unrest in other parts of North Africa. RWE Dea: Approval for Clipper South Gas Field Development Plan Tuesday, March 8, 2011 RWE Dea's subsidiary in the United Kingdom, RWE Dea UK, announced today that the field development plan for the Clipper South gas field has been approved by the Secretary of State at the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC). Wasit 'award' for Saipem Wednesday, March 2, 2011 Italian oil services contractor Saipem is reported to have won a contract for offshore work at Saudi Aramco's non-associated gas fields feeding Wasit, Saudi Arabia's biggest gas plant, according to industry sources. Petroceltic finds Algerian gas Wednesday, March 2, 2011 London-listed Petroceltic International has found gas at well AT-4 on its Isarene Permit in Algeria, despite producing lower than expected gas flows. ADX gets Dougga boost Wednesday, March 2, 2011 Australia's ADX Energy said it was encouraged by the results of an independent report of its Dougga gas condensate discovery on the Kerkouane permit, offshore Tunisia. Libya oil facilities 'intact' Wednesday, March 2, 2011 The head of Libya's state oil company said today that all oil installations in the restive North African country are undamaged. Chinese trio pull out Libya staff Tuesday, March 1, 2011 China's three major state-owned oil and gas companies have evacuated all their Chinese employees out of Libya, the companies said. EU: Gadhafi no longer controls most oil fields Tuesday, March 1, 2011 Moammar Gadhafi's regime appears to have lost control of most of Libya's oil and gas fields to opposition forces, the European Union's energy commissioner said, dismissing the idea of imposing a blockade. Saudi Aramco says supply needs met Monday, February 28, 2011 Demand for extra oil supply following disruption to exports from Opec member Libya has been met, Saudi Aramco chief executive Khalid Falih told reporters. All international staff members of RWE Dea flown out of Libya Sunday, February 27, 2011 Owing to the current situation in Libya, all international staff members of RWE Dea AG have been flown out of Egypt. This also applies to the members of the core team that had recently remained in Tripoli. In doing so, the Company responded to the current situation prevailing in the country in the interests of the safety of its workforce. CNPC evacuates Libya employees Thursday, February 24, 2011 China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) has evacuated 47 of its 391 Chinese employees in Libya because of political turmoil, according to a company newspaper. ADX prepares slowly for Sidi Dhaher Thursday, February 24, 2011 Australia-listed ADX Energy is moving slowly with preparations for its Sidi Dhaher well, 350 kilometers west of the Tunisian border with Libya. Tanzania approves Aminex farm-in Thursday, February 24, 2011 London-based Aminex can increase its interest in a production sharing agreement offshore Tanzania to 65% after receiving government approval for a farm-in arrangement with Australia's Key Petroleum. Protests no problem for Yemen LNG Thursday, February 24, 2011 Recent protests in Yemen will not stop Total-led Yemen liquefied natural gas from reaching full output capacity in the next six months, a spokesman for the company has said. Unrest hits Libyan output Wednesday, February 23, 2011 Unrest in Libya caused several oil-industry companies to say they were halting output in Africa's third-largest producing country. Suhail Star arrives for OSX Wednesday, February 23, 2011 Brazilian oil services company OSX has received the very large crude carrier Suhail Star, the second of the two VLCC sister-vessels it agreed to buy from Saudi Aramco subsidiary Vela International Marine as part of a $54 million deal. Lamprell lands newbuild jackup order Wednesday, February 23, 2011 UAE based shipbuilding yard Lamprell said it has received a new contract from Singapore's Greatship Global Energy Services for a newbuild self-elevating jackup. Repsol suspends ops in Libya Wednesday, February 23, 2011 Spain's biggest oil company Repsol has suspended its operations in Libya, said a spokesman for the company. Syria likely to award some onshore blocks in Feb-Minister Wednesday, February 23, 2011 The Syrian government will award contracts to explore, develop and produce hydrocarbons from eight onshore blocks later this month, said the country's oil minister. OMV provides update on Libya operations Wednesday, February 23, 2011 Due to the current political unrest in Libya, OMV expects a temporary reduction of its Libyan production and can not exclude a complete stop. BG targets Kenya blocks Wednesday, February 23, 2011 A BG Group-led consortium is in exclusive talks for the award of production sharing contracts on two blocks off Kenya, according to partner Pancontinental Oil & Gas. Nigeria deep-water 'under-developed' Wednesday, February 23, 2011 Nigeria's deep-water oil fields, currently pumping about 600,000 barrels per day, remain ''under-developed'' and will only reach full potential in the right investment climate, Shell said. Tullow closes in on Uganda deal Wednesday, February 23, 2011 "We're very close to signing off an agreement with the government of Uganda," Reuters quoted Tullow's exploration director Angus McCoss told an industry conference. OMV income up on prices Wednesday, February 23, 2011 Austrian oil and gas company OMV has recorded a 61% rise in net income over the calendar year on the back of a strong oil price. Technip wins Gygrid contract Wednesday, February 23, 2011 France-based Technip has won a 90 million subsea contract for work on Statoil's Gygrid field development in the Norwegian Sea. Iraq's Shell gas deal reaches advanced stage Wednesday, February 23, 2011 The $12 billion deal between the Iraqi government and Shell to produce gas from southern Iraqi oil fields has reached an advanced stage, said Iraq's Deputy Prime Minister for Energy. Perenco moves on decommissioning Wednesday, February 23, 2011 Perenco is pressing ahead with a groundbreaking decommissioning project off the UK. Tullow takes aim off French Guiana Wednesday, February 23, 2011 UK independent Tullow Oil will start drilling the first oil and gas exploration well off French Guiana in March, according to the company's exploration director Angus McCoss. ENI Ireland Announces Deepwater Offshore West Ireland Opportunities Wednesday, February 23, 2011 Eni is offering its entire Ireland exploration portfolio (preferably as a package) for Qualified Operators and Joint Ventures, willing to take over Operatorship and Partnership. BP to Sell Package of UK Upstream Assets Wednesday, February 23, 2011 BP announced the intention of selling its interests in a number of operated oil and gas fields in the UK. The assets involved are the Wytch Farm onshore oilfield in Dorset and all of BP's operated gas fields in the Southern North Sea, including associated pipeline infrastructure and the Dimlington terminal. Po Valley awarded 2 new gas exploration licences in Italy Wednesday, February 23, 2011 Po Valley Energy Limited has achieved a 38% increase in the area of its gas exploration rights in northern Italy - including licences located in one of the country's former largest onshore gas fields in the Po Valley. Statoil: Long-term contract for new rig design Wednesday, February 23, 2011 Statoil is sending out an invitation to tender for a new type of drilling rig. It is specially-designed by the industry on behalf of Statoil for use on mature fields on the Norwegian continental shelf (NCS). Economists warn of an oil-sparked recession Wednesday, February 23, 2011 If ongoing political turmoil in North Africa and the Middle East pushes crude oil prices to $120 per barrel or more permanently, the global recovery from the worst recession since the 1930s would be hampered, according to a top economist. Fluor awarded early works contract for ExxonMobil's Qurna field Wednesday, February 23, 2011 Fluor announced that ExxonMobil Iraq Limited has awarded the firm an early works program contract for the West Qurna (Phase I) field near Basra, Iraq. Centrica lines up Qatargas LNG Wednesday, February 23, 2011 UK utility Centrica said it entered into a three year contract with Qatargas to deliver 2.4 million tons per annum of liquefied natural gas to the UK's Isle of Grain terminal. Oil price surges as Libyan crisis intensifies Tuesday, February 22, 2011 Brent crude climbed to $108 per barrel and US oil contracts leapt by $6 a barrel on Monday as Colonel Gaddafi's bid to cling to power in Libya appeared to become more desperate. BP halts Libya drilling Monday, February 21, 2011 BP said it is suspending preparations to drill in the Libyan desert as its contractors pull out over unrest, while other operators intend to evacuate expatriate staff from the North African country. OMV closes acquisition of Pioneer's subsidiaries in Tunisia Sunday, February 20, 2011 OMV, the leading energy Group in the European growth belt, through its fully owned subsidiary OMV (Tunesien) Production GmbH, completed the acquisition of 100% of the entire issued share capital of Pioneer Natural Resources Tunisia Ltd. and Pioneer Natural Resources Anaguid Ltd. (together "Pioneer Tunisia") from Pioneer Natural Resources, an independent US oil and gas company. The transaction was aligned with the Tunisian government. Libya: BP to drill offshore Libya by end-June Sunday, February 20, 2011 BP, recovering from last year's Gulf of Mexico oil spill, plans to begin offshore exploration drilling in Libya by the end of June, later than previously expected. Spokesman Robert Wine said on Thursday that BP expected to drill offshore in Libya in the first half of this year and that work on an onshore well would begin sooner. The company had previously planned to begin offshore drilling in 2010. Kenya: Apache farms into Origin Energy's Block L8 PSC in the Lamu Basin offshore Kenya Sunday, February 20, 2011 Origin Energy has reached agreement with a subsidiary of US independent Apache Corp to divest a 50% undivided interest in a Production Sharing Contract (PSC) for petroleum exploration and production, pertaining to Block L8 located in the Lamu Basin, offshore Republic of Kenya. Iraq to auction giant field in 2011 Wednesday, January 12, 2011 Iraq plans to hold a licensing auction later this year to award the giant Nassiriya oil field to international oil companies, the country's Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Hussein al-Shahristani told a visiting Japanese minister of trade and industry, according to the Dow Jones Newswires. Sonde Resources Wraps Up Ops Offshore Tunisia Wednesday, January 12, 2011 Sonde Resources has completed drilling and production testing of its inaugural well on the 7th of November Block, offshore Tunisia / Libya, the Zarat North-1 appraisal well, in which Sonde owns a 100% working interest. Rumaila Exceeds 10% Improved Production Target Wednesday, January 12, 2011 The Rumaila Operating Organisation (ROO) has met a major milestone in the re-development of the super-giant field in Southern Iraq by increasing production by more than 10 per cent above the 1.066 million barrels a day (b/d) initial production rate agreed in December 2009. Platts: OPEC Pumps 29.27 MMbpd in Dec Wednesday, January 12, 2011 The 12-member Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries' (OPEC) crude oil production averaged 29.27 million barrels per day (b/d) in December, up 170,000 b/d from an estimated 29.1 million b/d in November, according to a just-released Platts survey of OPEC and oil industry officials and analysts. Borouge extends lifetime of steel pipelines Wednesday, January 12, 2011 At the Arabplast Exhibition held in Dubai from January 8 – 11, 2011, Borouge, a leading provider of innovative, value creating plastics solutions, showed how it is contributing to the Oil and Gas Industry in the Middle East, helping them extend the lifetime of their steel pipelines by internally lining them with durable, corrosion resistant polyethylene. BAN KI-MOON to speak at World Future Energy Tuesday, January 11, 2011 His Excellency Ban Ki-Moon, Secretary-General of the United Nations, today announced his participation and attendance at the fourth annual World Future Energy Summit (WFES), held in Abu Dhabi from 17-20 January 2011, and hosted by Masdar. Syria operations is mixed bag for Gulfsands Monday, January 10, 2011 Gulfsands Petroleum which is involved in oil and gas production, exploration and development activities in Syria, Iraq, Tunisia, Italy and the US, has released an update on its operations in Syria. Ghana: Tullow's Tweneboa-3 appraisal well confirms Greater Tweneboa Area resource potential Monday, January 10, 2011 Tullow Oil has announced that the Tweneboa-3 appraisal well in the Deepwater Tano licence offshore Ghana has successfully encountered gas condensate in excellent quality sandstone reservoirs. Nigeria: Shell sees strong interest in sale of Nigerian oil blocks Monday, January 10, 2011 The Sunday Times newspaper has reported that at least 18 consortia are working on bids for four onshore oil fields in the Niger Delta being sold by Shell Petroleum Development and Production Company (SPDC) and its partners Total and Eni. Dana Petroleum and Tullow Oil announce successful Cormoran-1 well offshore Mauritania Monday, January 10, 2011 Dana Petroleum, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Korean National Oil Corporation (KNOC), advises that the Cormoran-1 exploration well has been drilled to a total depth of 4,695 metres below sea level and has been plugged and abandoned as a gas discovery. China's Net Oil Imports Rise After Refiners Boost Fuel Output on Shortage Monday, January 10, 2011 China, the world's biggest energy user, increased net imports of crude oil by 1.4 percent in December from a month earlier as refineries maintained high operating rates to ease a diesel shortage. South Sudan Votes in Referendum to Declare Oil-Rich Region's Independence Monday, January 10, 2011 Southern Sudanese voters turned out for the second day of balloting in a referendum on independence that appeared set to establish the oil-rich region as the world’s newest nation. Israel's new offshore gas exploration may change the game Sunday, January 9, 2011 The last week's confirmation of the largest underwater discovery of natural gas in a decade off Israeli shores has made many in the Jewish state dizzy with talk of becoming a global energy power possessing reserves worth tens of billions of dollars. Sudan to cancel all subsidies Sunday, January 9, 2011 Sudan aims to remove gradually all subsidies from sugar and petroleum products to increase government revenue as foreign exchange shortages hit the economy, the finance minister said on last week. Kuwait and Iran play the opposition role Sunday, January 9, 2011 Two of Opec's leading members, Iran and Kuwait, have rebuffed that oil prices exceeding $90 per barrel were damaging the global economy, saying there was no need to increase supply. Preparation for New Bid Round in Iraq Sunday, January 9, 2011 Iraq will start arrangements next week to hold a fourth licensing auction to award several oil and gas exploration contracts to international companies, a senior Iraqi oil official said yesterday. Pioneer sells Tunisia subsidiaries to OMV Thursday, January 6, 2011 A wholly owned subsidiary of OMV AG is negotiating the purchase of Pioneer's Tunisia subsidiaries for cash proceeds of $866 million, subject to normal closing adjustments. RWE Dea prepares for field development in Libya Thursday, January 6, 2011 RWE Dea North Africa and Middle East Branch and the Libyan National Oil Corporation (NOC) have signed an ''Exploration and Production Sharing Agreement IV'' (EPSA IV) covering Blocks NC 193 and NC 195 in the Sirte Basin. Gulf Keystone Cites 'Huge Hydrocarbon Potential' in Kurdistan Thursday, January 6, 2011 Gulf Keystone announced the completion of drilling and testing operations on its Shaikan-3 shallow appraisal well. This well was designed to drill and test the Cretaceous intervals in the immediate vicinity of the Shaikan-1 discovery well. Aker Solutions awarded Angola FPSO installation contract Wednesday, January 5, 2011 MODEC Offshore Production Systems (Singapore) Pte Ltd. has awarded Aker Solutions' wholly owned subsidiary Aker Marine Contractors a mooring installation contract for hook-up of the Bourgogne FPSO offshore Angola. BP to delay Libya offshore drilling Monday, December 27, 2010 BP PLC said it would delay its plans to drill offshore Libya, citing a decision not to use its original drill rig for ''operational reasons.'' Kosmos resolves ''issues'' with Ghana Monday, December 27, 2010 Texas-based Kosmos Energy said it signed an agreement with the government of Ghana and Ghana National Petroleum Company (GNPC) to ''amicably resolve'' several issues between them. BG Group hits second Tanzanian gas discovery Monday, December 27, 2010 BG Group announced that its second Tanzanian exploration well, Chewa-1, has also discovered gas. The well, located in Block 4 approximately 80 kilometers offshore southern Tanzania in a water depth of around 1 300 meters, is some eight kilometres north-west of BG Group's Pweza-1 gas discovery announced in last October. Africa Oil signs Ethiopia block study agreement Monday, December 27, 2010 Africa Oil Corp. signed a definitive agreement with the Government of Ethiopia to jointly study the Rift Valley Block. TPAO announces Oil Discovery in Murzuq Basin Monday, December 27, 2010 TPAO reported a new oil discovery in the Murzuq Basin (Fizan Desert), Libya. Saipem wins $1.2 billion Middle East contracts Monday, December 27, 2010 Saipem has been awarded new onshore contracts with a total value in excess of $1.2 billion. Tehran seals $6.5 billion gas deals Monday, December 27, 2010 Iran signed new contracts in the gas sector worth $6.5 billion, a senior official was quoted. New oil center to be launched in Riyadh Monday, December 27, 2010 A new center for petroleum studies being constructed in Riyadh will conduct highly advanced studies in the fields of energy and the environment, said Oil Minister Iraqi Oil Ministry: Anbar Gas Fields under major progress Monday, December 27, 2010 Negotiations between the Iraqi Oil Ministry and the local government in West Iraq's Anbar Province, regarding the contracts to develop the gas fields in the province, has achieved a "major progress," according to a leading Oil Ministry spokesman. Aramco plans early start at Wasit Thursday, December 9, 2010 Saudi Aramco plans to bring the giant Wasit gas plant on line in 2013, earlier than expected, as it speeds up gas output expansion to meet rising domestic demand. RWE Dea Norge milestone: Production from the Gjoa field comes on stream Thursday, November 11, 2010 The Gjoa oil, natural gas and condensate field in Norway went into production. It is currently the biggest field development project in the Norwegian North Sea. The licence was awarded in July 1988, and the discovery was made the following year. Statoil takes time-out from Gullfaks drilling operations Thursday, November 11, 2010 The drilling and well operations were stopped at Gullfaks for an additional review of Statoil's routines for planning and conducting drilling operations. Baker Hughes Launches Reservoir Navigation Services Tuesday, November 2, 2010 Baker Hughes announced the launch of its Reservoir Navigation Services (RNS), which is intended to optimize wellbore placement through the combination of reservoir modeling, the industry's most comprehensive real-time drilling evaluation toolkit and 3D/4D visualization software with interpretation experts. Circle Oil Hits Gas Pay in Sebou Permit Tuesday, November 2, 2010 Circle Oil announced that the CGD-11 exploration well has been drilled, logged and successfully tested in the Sebou Permit, Morocco. Redline Hooks O&G Contract in Oman Tuesday, November 2, 2010 Redline has signed a major contract to supply connectivity for a large digital oil field project in Oman. Gulf Keystone IDs Oil Shows in Iraq Tuesday, November 2, 2010 Gulf Keystone announced the following update for the current exploration and testing activities in the Kurdistan region of Iraq. ExxonMobil wants UAE deal changes Tuesday, November 2, 2010 ExxonMobil wants to extend its oil concessions with Abu Dhabi, but asks for its contracts to be redrawn so it can use all its technology without rivals gaining access, its senior vice president said. BP awards TWMA North Sea contracts Tuesday, October 26, 2010 Total Waste Management Alliance (TWMA), a world leader in environmental waste management services to the oil and gas industry, has been awarded drilling waste management contracts by BP worth around £4million. Mittelplate: 25 million tons of crude produced by Germany's largest oil field Tuesday, October 26, 2010 New milestone in the development of the Mittelplate oil field off the western coast of Schleswig-Holstein: On 23 October 2010 the 25-millionth ton of crude was produced from the reservoir. Tethys Oil: Farha South-4 well tests 3,079 bopd on pump in block 3 onshore Sultanate of Oman Sunday, October 24, 2010 The Farha South-4 well ("FS-4") in Block 3 onshore the Sultanate of Oman has been completed. The pilot hole was drilled to a depth of 2,039 metres. Both the Barik and the Lower Al Bashir formations were penetrated with oil shows. Aker Solutions partners with Matasis Investment Holdings in South Africa to form a strategic new company Sunday, October 24, 2010 Aker Solutions in South Africa and the South African investment company Matasis Investment Holdings have formed a new incorporated company: Aker Solutions Matasis, based in Bryanston, Johannesburg. Oil discovery offshore Angola Sunday, October 24, 2010 The Mpungi-1 well is the seventh discovery in Block 15/06. It completes the minimum work commitment for this area 18 months in advance of the contractual deadline. Statoil sanctions Jack and St. Malo field development in the Gulf of Mexico Sunday, October 24, 2010 Statoil, along with operator Chevron and other partners, have sanctioned the Jack/St Malo field development, located in the ultra-deepwater Walker Ridge area of the US Gulf of Mexico (GoM). Aker Solutions goes subsea for Shell in Gulf of Mexico Monday, October 11, 2010 Aker Solutions has signed three subsea contracts with Shell Offshore Inc for deliveries to the operator's Popeye and Europa fields in the Gulf of Mexico. Contract values are undisclosed. Dana, Crescent's Kurdistan gas output at 200 mcf/day Monday, October 11, 2010 Crescent Petroleum and affiliate Dana Gas have reached a production and processing capacity of 200 million cubic feet (mcf) of gas per day in Iraq's Kurdistan region, said a company statement. Retention and employee engagement the topmost HR challenge in the MENA Region's Oil & Gas sector Sunday, October 10, 2010 In a recent survey conducted by the International Quality and Productivity Centre, 44% of the 2,895 Energy sector respondents have chosen retention and employee engagement as the topmost HR challenge in the Oil & Gas sector compared to 19% for recruitment. Iran Seeks to Export Gas to Lebanon, Revamp Refineries Sunday, October 10, 2010 Iran and offered to rehabilitate Lebanon's refineries and invest in water projects and gas supplies in the east Mediterranean country and officials from the two countries will discuss the offer today, the Lebanese energy minister's senior adviser said. Opec sees tough year ahead Wednesday, September 15, 2010 Opec's Secretary General said he was worried about the world economy, saying the rest of this year and first half of next year would be very difficult. Aramco CEO: Future generations to rely mainly on Fossil Fuels Wednesday, September 15, 2010 Khalid A. Al-Falih, president and chief executive officer of Saudi Aramco, delivered the keynote speech "Accessibility and Acceptability: Striking the Balance for an Optimal Energy Future" at the 21st World Energy Congress in Montreal, Canada. Schlumberger Finalizes $11B Merger with Smith International Tuesday, August 31, 2010 Schlumberger has closed its merger with Smith International. As previously announced, each Smith stockholder will receive 0.6966 shares of Schlumberger common stock in exchange for each Smith share, with cash paid in lieu of any fractional shares of Schlumberger common stock. RWE and Kurdistan Regional Government of Iraq sign cooperation agreements Tuesday, August 31, 2010 RWE today announced that it has signed Cooperation Agreements with the Kurdistan Regional Government in Iraq with the aim of helping it to develop and design its domestic and export gas transportation infrastructure - creating a route to market for Kurdistan's major gas reserves. Baker Hughes and Iraqi South Oil Company sign strategic alliance agreement Monday, August 16, 2010 Baker Hughes announced it has signed a three-year strategic alliance with Iraq's South Oil Company (SOC) to provide technical services to SOC's wireline logging department in Burj Esya, Basra south Iraq. A hi-tech architectural "dress" in DuPont Corian techno-surface for the whole network of SOCAR's gasoline stations in Azerbaijan Monday, July 12, 2010 All the building structures of the national network of gasoline stations of SOCAR are going to "wear" an external cladding made with DuPont Corian. Libya to allow BP's deepwater drilling Tuesday, June 29, 2010 Libya will allow BP to begin drilling in its offshore deepwater region next month, despite the massive Gulf of Mexico oil spill, the head of Libya's National Oil Co. said Sunday. Shokri Ghanem, who serves as Libya's de facto oil minister, said the April explosion of the Deepwater Horizon rig, and the subsequent spill, were 'tragic,' but the oil industry is also moving into 'new frontiers.' Shell to continue deep-water drilling Tuesday, June 29, 2010 Royal Dutch Shell will continue its deep-water drilling programme to meet rising global oil demand, its chief executive said, despite safety concerns following rival BP's Gulf of Mexico blowout. Burgan accounts for half of Kuwait output Tuesday, June 29, 2010 Half of Kuwaits oil production comes from Burgan, the second largest oilfield in the world, a senior oil official said in published remarks. Foster Wheeler Awarded Contract by GDF SUEZ for Cameroon LNG Project Tuesday, June 29, 2010 Foster Wheeler AG announced today its Global Engineering and Construction Group has been awarded a contract by GDF SUEZ to carry out the pre-front-end engineering design (pre-FEED) for the development of an onshore LNG plantand offshore gas gathering infrastructure. Libya wary over BP's Mediterranean drilling Wednesday, June 16, 2010 Libya wants assurances from BP after its handling of the Gulf of Mexico oil spill but will allow it to start deep-water drilling in the Mediterranean, the country's top oil official said J. Ray delivers Qatargas platform Wednesday, June 16, 2010 Qatargas has taken a major step towards completing work for its Qatargas 3 and Qatargas 4 ventures with the 'Mechanical Acceptance' and handover of the first of three offshore gas production platforms, known as 'QW8', from contractor, J. Ray McDermott (JRM). Aker Solutions completes Gjoa platform for the North Sea Monday, June 14, 2010 The semi-submersible platform by Aker Solutions for the Gjøa oil and gas field offshore Norway, started on its journey from the yard at Stord to the North Sea, where installation will take place. Production start-up is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2010. OPEC: Supply not to increase Thursday, June 10, 2010 The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries said Wednesday it wouldn't need to boost its supply after cutting demand forecasts for its crude and boosting supply estimates for rival producers, despite the impact of a U.S. oil spill. BP shares plunge to 14-year low as doubts grow over dividend Thursday, June 10, 2010 BP’s share price tumbled by 15.8 per cent to a 14-year low in New York trading last night amid mounting concerns about the financial impact of the Gulf of Mexico oil spill. Analysts now believe that it is likely that BP will cut or even suspend its dividend after intense political pressure in the US. UK: OHM awarded North Sea WISE contract Thursday, June 10, 2010 AIM-listed Offshore Hydrocarbon Mapping (OHM), has announced that it has been awarded a CSEM contract, worth in excess of $1 million, in the North Sea, by an existing client, Bridge Energy UK (formerly Silverstone Energy). Update on Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill Response Wednesday, May 26, 2010 BP provided an update on developments in the response to the MC252 oil well incident in the Gulf of Mexico. DNO: increase in Yaalen flow Tuesday, May 18, 2010 The second test in Yaalen-3 flowed 2,650 barrels of oil per day (bopd). As the first test flowed 1.400 bopd, the aggregated flow rate from the two tests is 4,050 bopd. Enefit signs oil shale concession agreement with Jordan Tuesday, May 18, 2010 CRA International, a worldwide leader in providing management, economic, and financial consulting services, announced that the Company advised the government of Jordan in the structuring and negotiation of an oil shale concession agreement that will allow Enefit, an affiliate of Eesti Energia AS, to explore and develop oil shale resources in Jordan. Qatar Petroleum, Shell and Petrochina sign new Exploration and Production Sharing Agreement Monday, May 17, 2010 Qatar Petroleum on behalf of the Government of the State of Qatar has signed a new Exploration and Production Sharing Agreement with Shell and PetroChina Company Limited for Qatar Block D. AuDax primes Lambouka bit Wednesday, May 12, 2010 AuDax Resources, the Australian listed explorer, announced that it was appointed to start drilling a well in the Lambouka prospect, off Tunisia, after conducting 3D seismic survey. Bowleven announces commencement of drilling operations in Etinde Permit Tuesday, May 11, 2010 Bowleven, the West Africa focused oil and gas exploration group listed on AIM, announced that it has commenced drilling operations on the Etinde Permit (Etinde), offshore Cameroon. Woodchips for BP's Gulf Oil Spill Clean Up Tuesday, May 11, 2010 Green Energy Resources Inc. offered to commit 100,000 tons of woodchips for the gulf oil spill. Woodchips for oil containment is a proven technology listed with the Federal EPA. DNO: initial results from the testing of Yaalen-3 Monday, May 10, 2010 DNO reported initial results from the testing of Yaalen-3, in the Republic of Yemen. The first test in Yaalen-3 flowed 1,400 barrels of oil per day, with no water. The test rate was restricted by the equipment used during the test, and the Company expects that this interval has the capacity to flow in the order of 4,000 - 5,000 bopd. BP Provides Update on Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill Response Monday, May 10, 2010 BP provided an update on developments in the response to the MC252 oil well incident in the Gulf of Mexico, suggesting a run rate of cash far higher than some analysts had predicted. New technology 'to boost Saudi recovery rates' Monday, May 10, 2010 Saudi Oil Minister, Ali Naimi said that his country is aiming to boost recovery rates at key producing oilfields up to 70% through using a new technology. TNK-BP and IOCOI establish a joint venture to develop fields in Iraq Sunday, May 9, 2010 TNK-BP Holding and Iraq Oil Company for Oil Investments (IOCOI) have signed an agreement to establish a joint venture aimed at identifying potential projects to acquire, develop and operate oil and gas fields on the territory of Iraq. Nigeria: Shell can't meet oil production target Sunday, May 9, 2010 Royal Dutch Shell PLC announced last Friday that it would not be able to fulfill some of its oil production contracts after a fire on one of its major pipelines in Nigeria that the company has blamed on thieves. BP Chief: Main Strategy to Contain US Oil Spill Almost a Failure Sunday, May 9, 2010 Oil giant BP's chief operating officer says the company's main strategy for containing a massive oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico has not worked. Tethys Oil Commences Drilling of Saiwan East Well Thursday, May 6, 2010 Drilling of the Saiwan East-3 ("SE-3") well on Block 4 onshore Oman has commenced. Well SE-3 is an appraisal well drilled to appraise and develop the discovery of light oil in the Khufai formation made in 2009. Foster Wheeler Awarded PMC Contract by ADCO for Oil Field Development in UAE Wednesday, May 5, 2010 Foster Wheeler AG announced that its Global Engineering and Construction Group has been awarded a project management consultancy (PMC) contract by the Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Operations (ADCO) for the Bab Field expansion and the development of the Qusahwira Field in the United Arab Emirates. Qatargas pushes on with LNG maintenance Wednesday, May 5, 2010 Qatargas, one of Qatar's top two exporters of liquefied natural gas would complete scheduled maintenance on two LNG production facilities by the end of May, according to reports. Fluor Wins Offshore FEED Contract in Abu Dhabi Tuesday, May 4, 2010 Fluor Corporation announced that its Fluor Offshore Solutions unit has been awarded a front-end engineering and design (FEED) contract by Abu Dhabi Marine Operating Company (ADMA-OPCO) for offshore facilities located 120 kilometers off the northwest coast of Abu Dhabi City. CROSCO mobilizes additional workover rigs to Oman Tuesday, May 4, 2010 CROSCO Integrated Drilling & Well Services Co., Ltd. announced that two additional workover rigs, CROSCO Cardwell 9 and CROSCO Cardwell 10 have been mobilized to Oman. Both workover rigs will be made available to CROSCO's joint venture company in Oman (MIDWESCO) for workover and field maintenance services. Yousefieh Field Achieves First Oil Production Thursday, April 29, 2010 Gulfsands Petroleum plc, the oil and gas production, exploration and development company with activities in Syria, Iraq, and the U.S.A., provided the following update on the Company's operations at Block 26, Syria where Gulfsands holds a 50% interest and acts as operator. Fluor to Perform Jetty Boil-Off Gas Recovery Project for Qatargas Thursday, April 29, 2010 Fluor Corporation announced that it was awarded an engineering, procurement and construction management (EPCM) contract by Qatargas Operating Company Limited in Ras Laffan, Qatar. BG Group agrees to sell its interest in Seabank Power Limited Thursday, April 29, 2010 BG Group announced that it has signed a Sale and Purchase Agreement with Electricity First Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cheung Kong Infrastructure Holdings Limited, for the sale of its 50% interest in Seabank Power Limited for a total consideration of £211.7 million (approximately $320 million). Mott MacDonald is awarded oil and gas resource assignment in Oman Thursday, April 29, 2010 Mott MacDonald has been appointed by Oman Refineries and Petrochemicals Company LLC to provide specialist engineering services to its Sohar division in Oman. AMEC joint venture secures Shell ONEgas contract extension Monday, April 19, 2010 AMEC, the international engineering and project management company, and its joint venture partners have secured a three-year extension, worth €200 million per year, for the Integrated Services Contract (ISC) for the assets known as Shell ONEgas Southern North Sea (SNS). Aker Solutions to supply MEG reclamation unit to Noble Energy Monday, April 19, 2010 The contract award affirms Aker Solutions' position as the world's leading provider of MEG reclamation technology, which removes the possibility of blockages in subsea pipelines, by preventing ice and hydrate formation. ExxonMobil Sets Drilling Records Sunday, April 18, 2010 ExxonMobil has completed the world's longest extended-reach well drilled from an existing offshore fixed platform drilling rig, increasing the company's ability to produce more domestic oil supplies from existing facilities at the Santa Ynez unit, offshore southern California. TATNEFT Begins Oil Production in Syria Sunday, April 18, 2010 Al Bou Kamal Petroleum Company, a joint venture between TATNEFT and the General Petroleum Corporation of Syria, established on a parity basis, started crude oil production from the South Kishma oil field in the Syrian Arab Republic. Dana makes significant gas find in UK North Sea Thursday, April 15, 2010 Dana Petroleum announced that it has made a significant gas discovery at the Platypus prospect in the UK Southern North Sea. The Dana operated 48/1a-5 well was drilled in a water depth of approximately 142 feet to a total measured depth of 11,048 feet, targeting a high quality Rotliegend age, Lower Leman prospect. Gazprom agrees to take stake in Eni's project Tuesday, April 13, 2010 Russia's Gazprom has agreed with Italy's Eni on conditions to take a stake in the Elephant oil project in Libya, RIA Novosti reported. Kasamene and Wahrindi North exploratory appraisal results Tuesday, April 13, 2010 Tullow Oil plc announced that the Kasamene-3 and Kasamene-3A wells in the Butiaba region of Uganda Block 2 have successfully delineated the extent of oil in the Kasamene field and discovered oil in the Wahrindi North fault block. Total and Partex eye Oman prizes Monday, April 12, 2010 France's Total and Portugal's Partex both plan to bid for oil and gas exploration blocks that Oman plans to auction, according to an executives from the companies. Sonatrach cheers double strike Monday, April 12, 2010 Algerian state energy group Sonatrach unveiled two more oil and gas finds, bringing to five the number of hydrocarbon discoveries made by the company this year. Halliburton snaps up Boots & Coots Monday, April 12, 2010 Halliburton and Boots & Coots jointly announced today that Halliburton has entered into a definitive merger agreement to acquire all of the outstanding stock of Boots & Coots in a stock and cash transaction Dockwise secures USD 40 million in near-term contracts and variation commitments Thursday, April 8, 2010 Dockwise Ltd. announced seven near-term contract wins for the transportation of four jack-up rigs, jack-up construction vessels, supply boats and a floating crane barge, to be transported to Egypt, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Sharjah, UAE, Singapore, Rotterdam, The Netherlands, Chabahar, Iran; and Trinidad, respectively. BG Group: successful Tupi field step-out appraisal well in the Santos Basin Thursday, April 8, 2010 BG Group (25%) and partners, Petrobras (65% and operator) and GALP (10%), have successfully completed drilling a Tupi field appraisal well (3-RJS-666) in the BM-S-11 license area, Santos Basin pre-salt, offshore Brazil. Lion Energy provides operations update in East Africa Thursday, April 8, 2010 Lion Energy Corp. provided an update regarding its ongoing exploration activities in East Africa, Kenya, Somalia (Puntland). Total Taps FMC for Laggan-Tormore Equipment Thursday, April 8, 2010 Total announced today that it has signed an agreement with Total Exploration and Production UK Ltd for the manufacture and supply of subsea production equipment to support the Laggan-Tormore field. Schlumberger Acquires IGEOSS Thursday, April 8, 2010 Schlumberger announced today the acquisition of IGEOSS, a developer of cutting-edge structural geology software. The IGEOSS applications and expertise will be integrated with existing Schlumberger software to advance customers' modeling capabilities, particularly in areas with complex geology. Angola: Two new oil discoveries Wednesday, April 7, 2010 Total announced that its subsidiary, TEPA (Block 15/06), Limited, and its partners have made two important oil discoveries in Angola at the Nzanza-1 and Cinguvu-1 wells, in the deep waters of the Angolan offshore. Lundin Petroleum Completes the Spin-Off of UK Business Tuesday, April 6, 2010 Lundin Petroleum AB announced the completion today of the spin-off of Lundin Petroleum's UK business into EnQuest plc (EnQuest). Lundin Petroleum received approximately fifty-five per cent (55%) of the total outstanding shares of EnQuest and will distribute all of its EnQuest shares to Lundin Petroleum shareholders. Dominion Gas awarded Nord Stream deal Tuesday, April 6, 2010 Aberdeen-based Dominion Gas is to become the main supplier of industrial gas for the Nord Stream Project in a deal worth upwards of £1.7million. The Nord Stream gas pipeline links Russia and the European Union via the Baltic Sea and is expected to transport up to 55 billion cubic metres of gas each year - enough to supply more than 26million households. KBR Acquires Energo Engineering Tuesday, April 6, 2010 KBR announced that it has acquired Houston-based Energo Engineering. Energo provides Integrity Management (IM) and advanced structural engineering services to the offshore oil and gas industry. Energo will be integrated into KBR's Granherne subsidiary, which will enable that business to expand its capabilities worldwide as well as support FEED and detailed design projects. Tethys Petroleum Limited: Drilling Commences on AKD02 (Doris) Appraisal Well Tuesday, April 6, 2010 Tethys Petroleum Limited announced that it had commenced drilling the AKD02 appraisal well in Kazakhstan. The AKD02 appraisal well is the first appraisal well of the AKD01 (Doris) oil discovery that flowed at a rate of 6,800 barrels of oil per day ("bopd") and will provide valuable further information on the size of the new oil field. Total Fires Up 2nd Yemen LNG Train Tuesday, April 6, 2010 Total announced that the second train of the Yemen LNG natural gas liquefaction plant has started production. Combined with liquefied natural gas (LNG) production from the first train, commissioned on October 15, 2009, it will enable the Yemen LNG plant to reach its full capacity. BJ Services Commercializes TeleCoil Logging System Thursday, April 1, 2010 BJ Services Company announced that it has commercialized its TeleCoil downhole communication system, successfully gathering accurate depth, temperature and pressure information for several operators in the North Sea. Hess sells off to SSE Thursday, April 1, 2010 SSE (Scottish and Southern Energy plc), through its wholly-owned subsidiary SSE E&P UK Limited, has entered into an agreement with Hess Limited to acquire its natural gas assets and infrastructure in three regions of the North Sea (Everest/Lomond Area; Easington Catchment Area; and Bacton Area). Petrofac Acquires Metering Specialist Thursday, April 1, 2010 Petrofac, the international oil & gas facilities service provider, confirms that it has acquired Stephen Gillespie Consultants Limited (SGC), a UK-based provider of metering services and systems for an initial cash consideration of £2.1 million. A further consideration of up to £1.4 million will be payable in cash over two years, subject to achieving certain agreed performance targets. BP announces first major contracts awarded for Rumaila rehabilitation Thursday, April 1, 2010 BP, on behalf of its partners in the Rumaila Technical Services Contract, announced the first major contracts to support the rehabilitation of the Rumaila field in Southern Iraq. Valiant Announces Successful Farm-Out of Tybalt and Viola Exploration Prospects Thursday, April 1, 2010 Valiant Petroleum plc made the following announcements regarding its Tybalt and Viola exploration prospects.