Turkish Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar shared the news on social media, stating that he and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud will attend a welcoming ceremony for the Oruc Reis later today.

The research vessel will undertake three-dimensional seismic studies in three designated areas off the coast of Somalia. These surveys, expected to last approximately seven months, aim to gather data for both oil and natural gas exploration.

Türkiye and Somalia have established a strong partnership in the energy sector. Earlier this year, the two countries signed memorandums of understanding that granted Türkiye's national oil company, Turkish Petroleum, exploration licenses for three offshore areas in Somali waters.

The seismic surveys conducted by the Oruc Reis will play a crucial role in determining the potential for oil and natural gas reserves in these areas. The data collected will be analyzed in Ankara to identify potential drilling sites. (ILKHA)