Uzbekneftegaz will accelerate well drilling in Ustyurt.
Uzbekneftegaz and China's XIBU are accelerating deep well drilling in the Ustyurt region and plan to complete some of the work by December 2026.
Uzbekneftegaz and the Chinese company XIBU have reached an agreement to expedite deep well drilling in the Ustyurt region. According to the signed agreement, nine rigs are to be delivered to the drilling sites, six of which have already arrived, according to Uzbekneftegaz JSC.
Issues related to the implementation of joint projects were discussed by Uzbekneftegaz Chairman of the Board Abdugani Sanginov and XIBU General Director Ai Xing, who led the Chinese company's delegation.
According to Uzbekneftegaz, drilling operations are currently underway at three wells. Equipment installation is ongoing at three other sites, and the remaining three rigs are in the mobilization phase.
XIBU is acting solely as a contractor in these projects, providing drilling services. All wells being worked on in the Ustyurt region are listed on the balance sheet of Uzbekneftegaz JSC. Ownership rights to these wells, as well as primary authority for their development and operation, belong to the Uzbek company.
During the meeting, the parties noted delays in meeting contractual deadlines for individual wells. Therefore, XIBU was instructed to expedite the mobilization of drilling rigs, equipment installation, and drilling operations.
The parties agreed to complete work on three wells by November 15, 2026, and on the other two by December of that year.
Particular attention was paid to analyzing geological data and preparing proposals for developing multi-zone fields. The use of directional and horizontal drilling technologies was also discussed.
Uzbekneftegaz emphasized that XIBU's modern technological solutions can improve drilling efficiency and increase well flow rates. To achieve this goal, the companies intend to intensify the exchange of experience between specialists, jointly analyze technological challenges, and implement advanced drilling methods.
Following the meeting, Uzbekneftegaz confirmed its readiness to provide the necessary practical support for the successful implementation of joint projects.