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Saudi Delta Energy to Launch Oil and Gas Exploration in Afghanistan
Energy Minerals · Oil & Gas Production · yonhap_finance · 2026-09-09
Saudi Arabia's Delta Energy Group has signed a major deal with the Afghan Taliban government to explore oil and gas resources and build energy infrastructure.
What Happened
Contract Signing: Saudi Arabia's Delta Energy Group has entered into a series of agreements with the Afghan Ministry of Mines and Petroleum to explore and develop oil and gas resources. The deal covers exploration rights in the Herat province and studies for local gas infrastructure.
Investment Scope: The company plans to invest up to $60 billion over the next decade in resource exploration and infrastructure development. This includes a $10 billion project to construct a 700km pipeline connecting the Herat and Kandahar regions.
Resource Potential: Afghanistan is estimated to hold significant untapped energy reserves, including 1.6 to 1.9 billion barrels of crude oil and substantial natural gas deposits. Delta Energy intends to proceed with the project in phases, contingent on successful exploration and verification of reserves.
Diplomatic Context: The presence of Zalmay Khalilzad, the former U.S. special envoy for Afghan peace, at the signing ceremony has drawn attention. Analysts suggest this may signal a shift toward greater international economic engagement with the Taliban-led government.