Turkiye Joins Hunt for Major Oil, Gas in Pakistan

In a groundbreaking partnership that could redefine regional energy dynamics, Turkiye has pledged to assist Pakistan in exploring one of the world’s largest untapped oil and gas reserves. This collaboration marks a turning point for Pakistan’s energy sector and promises massive economic benefits for both nations.

• Turkiye to assist in the exploration of massive oil & gas reserves

• Reserves ranked as the 4th-largest in the world

• Located in Balochistan and offshore areas of Pakistan

• Joint venture to enhance energy security and economic stability

• Exploration to involve cutting-edge seismic and drilling tech

• Expected to attract global investors and energy giants

• Could reduce Pakistan’s dependence on imported fuel

The announcement comes during a high-level meeting between Pakistani officials and a Turkish energy delegation led by senior representatives from Turkiye’s Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources.

“We believe Pakistan holds untapped potential in the energy sector, and we are committed to working together for mutual prosperity,” said the Turkish Energy Minister.

This alliance builds upon the longstanding brotherly relations between the two nations, aiming to unlock vast natural resources that could change Pakistan’s economic landscape.

Experts suggest that the majority of these oil and gas reserves lie in Balochistan’s unexplored basins, as well as deep-sea zones along Pakistan’s Arabian Sea coastline.

• Kech and Gwadar districts of Balochistan

• Offshore Indus Basin (Makran Subduction Zone)

• Kharan Desert – a geologically rich region

• Dera Bugti and Kohlu belt – already home to natural gas fields

With Turkiye’s advanced exploration technology and experience in offshore drilling, the partnership is expected to accelerate discoveries and extraction processes.

The collaboration with Turkiye is more than just an energy deal — it's a strategic move that could help Pakistan achieve long-term energy independence and geopolitical stability.

• Massive foreign direct investment (FDI)

• Employment opportunities in engineering, logistics, and operations

• Reduced import bills on oil and LNG

• Strengthened relations with a NATO-member ally

• Boost in infrastructure and regional development

Turkiye brings state-of-the-art equipment and expertise to the table, having successfully conducted deep-sea exploration in the Black Sea and Mediterranean.

• 3D Seismic Surveys

• Horizontal Drilling Techniques

• Geochemical and Hydrocarbon Modeling

• Mobile Drilling Units for Rugged Terrain

This technical edge will help Pakistan reduce exploration time and increase precision in identifying commercially viable oil and gas pockets.

Pakistan currently imports over 80% of its energy needs, which puts enormous pressure on foreign reserves and causes frequent fuel shortages.

• Soaring LNG prices in global markets

• Widening trade deficit due to energy imports

• Power outages due to supply-demand mismatch

• Shrinking natural gas reserves in Sui and Mari fields

This new initiative could potentially transform the domestic energy supply, reducing reliance on external sources and stabilizing prices for industries and consumers.

If exploration proves successful, these reserves could generate billions of dollars in revenue and reshape Pakistan’s energy market.

• Estimated output of 40–60 billion barrels of oil

• Trillions of cubic feet (TCF) of natural gas reserves

• $100–150 billion in projected investment over the next decade

• 25–30% reduction in annual fuel import bills

Such gains would also strengthen the rupee, improve credit ratings, and encourage multinational energy firms to invest in Pakistan.

Several global energy companies are already monitoring the Turkiye-Pakistan initiative with keen interest. Industry insiders say companies from the Gulf, Europe, and China may join the exploration efforts in Phase 2.

“The involvement of Turkiye has legitimized this effort and opened the doors to serious international investment,” said a regional oil analyst.

Both countries have pledged to ensure that the exploration process is transparent, eco-friendly, and legally compliant with international standards.

• Use of low-carbon technologies

• Impact assessments before drilling

• Protection of marine biodiversity in offshore zones

• Community compensation and relocation if necessary

Pakistani Energy Minister expressed full confidence in the project, stating:

“This joint venture with our Turkish brothers will not only bring energy but also jobs, growth, and dignity for our people.”

Meanwhile, the PM’s Office hinted at future collaborations in refinery development and renewable energy sectors with Turkiye as well.

The Turkiye-Pakistan oil and gas collaboration is a historic step forward — not only for energy development but also for regional stability and economic resilience.

By tapping into one of the largest untapped energy reserves on the planet, Pakistan is on the verge of becoming a regional energy power, while Turkiye solidifies its role as a global energy player.

If successful, this partnership could light up homes, fuel industries, and power a new era of prosperity for millions of Pakistanis.