The Senegalese Prime Minister is visiting Mauritania for three days, as the Grand Tortue Ahmeyim cross-border gas project reaches a decisive milestone with the opening of its first well.
Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko begins a three-day official visit to Mauritania this Sunday, APA learned from government sources. This trip comes the day after the opening of the first gas well of the Grand Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) project, a key moment in the development of this cross-border field, operated jointly by the two countries. “ The opening of gas wells is a historic step for Senegal », declared Birame Souleye Diop, Senegalese Minister of Energy, Oil and Mines, during the opening of the first well.
The GTA project, one of the largest deepwater gas discoveries in West Africa, is being developed in partnership by Société Mauritanienne des Hydrocarbures (SMH), Petrosen, bp and Kosmos Energy.
« This exemplary partnership with Senegal demonstrates the capacity of our two countries to achieve ambitious objectives together. », Underlined the Mauritanian Minister of Energy, Mohamed Ould Khaled, referring to a “ promising energy future » for the region.
According to a BP press release, the gas field is expected to produce approximately 2.3 million tonnes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) annually. The British operator confirms having successfully completed the first extractions to the floating processing vessel.
« This is a remarkable milestone for this important megaproject “, said Gordon Birrell, BP executive vice-president in charge of production. He emphasizes that gas resources are exploited at depths reaching 2,850 meters and that this project responds “ to current global energy demand ». « Africa’s importance in the global energy system is growing and these nations now have greater roles to play “, he added.
The GTA project is already generating significant socio-economic benefits with the creation of more than 3,000 local jobs and the involvement of around 300 local companies in Mauritania and Senegal. An apprentice training program has also been established, with 47 technicians in preparation for future offshore operations.
BP and its partners have also launched a multi-million dollar social investment program in both countries. This program aims to improve local quality of life and create opportunities for long-term growth, focusing on community health, economic development, environmental awareness and education.
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