The Federal Minister of Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik met with Irfan Neziroglu, ambassador for Turkiye in Pakistan, Friday to discuss the expansion of cooperation in the energy sector, including oil and gas exploration and collaboration in critical minerals. The meeting, held at the Ministry of Oil, also affected the developing geopolitical environment and diplomatic ties between the two countries.

According to an official declaration, the Petroleum Minister conveyed appreciation of Türkiye’s continued diplomatic support for Pakistan, especially under its recent tension with India. He said the bond between the two countries had endured over time, strengthened by shared history and strategic adaptation. Malik forwarded Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s gratitude and said that President Erdogan’s vocal support reflects the depth of the relationship between Pakistan-Türkiye.

Neziroglu repeated these feelings and described the relationship as a “Tested Brotherhood.” He praised Pakistan’s handling of recent geopolitical challenges.

Discussions focused on energy collaboration with emphasis on joint ventures, technology transfer and resource development. Malik noted that Türkiye’s state-owned Turk Petrolleri Anonim Ortakligi (TPAO) had so far been awarded two onshore blocks in Pakistan in the latest bidding round held on May 13, 2025. One Block, ZiarT North in Balochistan, includes JV Partners Marienergies (33.16%, Operator), Ogdcl (24.87%), Pplepl, Pple, Pplepl, Plple (24.87%), TPAO (10%) and GHPL (7.10%). The second, Sukhpur-II in Sindh, was awarded an JV extensive prime (25%, operator), and dcl (30%), Marienergies (30%) and TPAO (15%).

TPAO has also signed a joint bid agreement with a consortium of Pakistani companies – Marienergiies, Ogdcl and PPL – to participate in the upcoming offshore bid round 2025.