Shell and Kazakhstan Sign Exploration Contract for Zhanaturmys Field

The Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan and Shell Kazakhstan have signed a contract for geological exploration at the Zhanaturmys site in the Aktobe region. The document was signed by Vice Minister of Energy Yerlan Akbarov and Senior Vice President and Chairman of Shell in Kazakhstan, Suzanne Kugan.

The contract stipulates the execution of seismic surveys, data collection, and technical assessments in compliance with current regulatory requirements and subject to obtaining necessary permits.

"This project contributes to forming a long-term hydrocarbon resource base to strengthen the country's energy security and stimulate sustainable economic growth," noted Vice Minister Yerlan Akbarov.

Suzanne Kugan stated: "The signing of today's exploration contract reaffirms Shell's commitment to long-term cooperation with Kazakhstan. Leveraging our global experience and advanced technologies, we intend to continue contributing to geological exploration and expanding the country's resource base."

The Zhanaturmys site, covering 1,377 square kilometers, is located in one of Kazakhstan's most promising oil and gas basins. The work program includes conducting 3D seismic surveys and potentially drilling a deep exploratory well.

Given the project's scale and technical complexity, the contract is valid until 2032. Implementation will proceed under an improved model contract framework. Throughout its term, Shell will allocate at least 100 million tenge to finance socio-economic development in the region where the site is located.