In accordance with the instructions of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Uzbekneftegaz JSC has identified a number of reforms this year aimed at drilling exploration and production wells in order to increase the country’s gas reserves and expand production volumes.

To ensure the effective implementation of these measures, during the visit of the Chairman of the Management Board of Uzbekneftegaz JSC, Abdugani Sanginov, to the People’s Republic of China, negotiations were held with leading companies in the oil and gas industry. In particular, matters of cooperation were discussed with XIBU, a company within the structure of China’s national corporation CNPC, one of the world’s leading companies. Earlier, the company had been proposed a long-term agreement to drill a total of 105 wells in Uzbekistan during 2026–2029.

Today, Uzbekneftegaz JSC and XIBU signed a first-phase contract for drilling 30 wells in 2026–2027. Under the agreement, it is planned to bring 10 drilling rigs with a lifting capacity of 450 tons to Uzbekistan.

It should be noted that at prospective areas with natural gas reserves identified through seismic studies conducted by Uzbekneftegaz JSC, the planned depth of the new wells is expected to exceed 5,500–6,000 meters. In addition, complex geological conditions have been observed in already drilled wells, including high pressure reaching up to 1,000 atmospheres and temperatures of up to 200°C.

This project is of significant importance for ensuring the safety of drilling operations in complex geological conditions, preventing emergency situations, expanding geological exploration activities, increasing gas reserves, and implementing strategic tasks aimed at ensuring the country’s energy security.