Sunday October 27, 2024
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Abdirisaaq Omar Mohamed accused Puntland State President Said Abdullahi Deni of obstructing oil exploration activities in Puntland.
Speaking to the media in Mogadishu on Saturday, Minister Mohamed stated that President Deni attempted to bring in a company he personally chose to conduct oil exploration, which the federal government ultimately rejected.
"President Deni seeks to politicize the government's efforts toward oil production and development," stated Mohamed, adding that Deni referenced an image of a map that was unintentionally displayed at the Mogadishu event to cast a negative light on the government's goals for financial independence through oil production.
The controversy intensified following the recent arrival of Turkey's research vessel, the Oruc Reis, in Somali waters to conduct seismic surveys for oil and natural gas. A map displayed at the welcoming ceremony in Mogadishu showed disputed boundaries, sparking backlash from Puntland and Hirshabelle States and igniting public criticism on social media.
In response to the outrage, the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources apologized, clarifying that the incorrect map was displayed by mistake.
"We apologize for the technical error that occurred, including the map presented at the ship's reception," the ministry stated, explaining that the company responsible for the event design unintentionally used a map sourced from the internet.
The Oruc Reis will conduct three-dimensional seismic surveys in three licensed areas off Somalia's coast, each covering approximately 5,000 square kilometers (1,931 square miles). The seven-month mission aims to gather seismic data for oil and gas exploration, which will later be analyzed in Ankara to determine potential drilling sites.
Earlier this year, Somalia and Turkey signed agreements that granted Turkish Petroleum licenses to explore three offshore areas. These surveys mark a significant step in Somalia's efforts to tap into its energy resources, hoping to advance economic development and financial self-reliance.