Chevron Corporation announced today that it has entered into a preliminary agreement with the Syrian Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources to explore for hydrocarbons in offshore blocks located in the eastern Mediterranean, off the coast of Syria. The agreement marks Chevron’s first formal step into Syrian offshore energy development and reflects the company’s strategy to expand its international exploration portfolio.

Under the terms of the deal, Chevron will act as operator of the exploration program with a majority working interest, subject to regulatory approvals and final contract execution. The agreement provides Chevron with the right to conduct seismic surveys, geological studies, and exploratory drilling across designated offshore acreage believed to hold significant oil and natural gas potential.

“We see meaningful opportunity in the eastern Mediterranean,” said a Chevron spokesperson. “This agreement allows Chevron to apply its offshore expertise to evaluate resources in a region that has been underexplored. Our initial focus will be on data acquisition and environmental and technical assessments before moving to drilling activity.”

The first phase of the project is expected to include modern 2D and 3D seismic surveys to better understand subsurface structures. Chevron will also work with local authorities to establish safety, environmental, and operational frameworks aligned with international standards. If results are favorable, the company could proceed with exploratory wells within the next few years.

Syrian energy officials said the partnership aims to attract international expertise and investment to develop offshore resources and strengthen the country’s energy sector. The government views offshore development as a long-term pathway to increase production capacity and regional energy cooperation.

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