Inpex to join Lukoil onshore Iraq

INPEX has signed a service contract with the Iraqi State Oil Compnay (South Oil Company) for the onshore Exploration Block 10 jointly with LUKOIL.

INPEX and LUKOIL have been successfully awarded the rights to explore the Exploration Block 10 through the fourth Petroleum Licensing Round held on 31 May 2012 in Iraq. LUKOIL (Operator) holds a 60% participating interest and INPEX holds the remaining 40% participating interest in the Block 10.

INPEX and LUKOIL will conduct exploration activities including the minimum work program of a 2D seismic survey of 1,375km and drilling of one exploratory well.

Participating in the Block 10 is the first case for INPEX to take part in oil and natural gas upstream activities in Iraq. As Iraq has a huge potential of oil and natural gas reserves, it is expected that participating in an Iraq project will contribute to the continuous enhancement of INPEX's exploration and production activities in line with the "Medium- to Long-Term Vision of INPEX" announced in May 2012. INPEX will further seek exploration and development opportunities in Iraq and the surrounding areas.