Oil and gas exploration resumes in Makran, an alternative to the Strait of Hormuz, after 20 years; Turkish company drilling

After nearly two decades, Pakistan is set to resume offshore drilling for oil and gas, with the Turkish state-owned company, Turkish Petroleum, scheduled to begin exploration in Pakistani waters in September or October. Turkish Petroleum is among 23 companies with petroleum concession agreements, and will bring a seismic survey vessel to conduct surveys in the country's maritime limits. The Makran Basin and its adjacent offshore areas have been designated for oil and gas exploration once again, signaling a new phase for Pakistan's offshore energy sector. The Makran region holds growing geopolitical importance, attracting significant interest from Turkey, the US, and China, as it is considered a crucial strategic location and a potential alternative to the Strait of Hormuz.