The Cyprus government announced Friday that ExxonMobil has started drilling at an offshore oilfield inside the island’s exclusive economic zone.
Energy Minister Giorgos Lakkotrypis made the announcement in Nicosia during a meeting with US Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources, Francis Fannon.
“I want to confirm that the drilling at the Delphine target in block 10 has begun,” Lakkotrypis said.
The US diplomat expressed his satisfaction with the involvement of a US company in Cyprus’ hydrocarbon exploration program.
He said his country viewed energy “as a catalyst for cooperation, economic development and benefit of all the people of the region.”
The Stena Icemax drillship leased by ExxonMobil arrived on location in block 10 on Sunday. The drilling is expected to last approximately two months.