Drilling in “Virgin Yemen” [Archives:2006/1003/Local News]

HADRAMOUT, Nov. 26 ) The first testing well in Hadramout is being drilled by the Contractors Union's Company for oil and gas, affiliated with World Contractors Union's Companies.

Hani Shehadah, the company's regional manager, said they expect good results in one month for the well they called Al-Noukhilat 1. The company first made geological studies of bloc 49, of which the company received exploitation rights in April.

Shehadah also pointed out his company is the general operator for the bloc 49, with a share of 32 percent. Other partners are Australian Oil Search Company, the Hungarian Mull and the Yemeni Company affiliated with the Yemen's General Establishment for Oil and Gas.

He further revealed the company intends to dig two other wells within the same bloc as part of the agreement made with the ministry. The company also holds the rights to bloc 33 in Hadramout and bloc 45 in Al-Mahara.

“We plan to invest US $40 million next year in works involving studies and exploration activities for 4 to 6 wells within the three blocs. We are looking forward to having more promising results to develop the district's infrastructure and create jobs for Yemeni workforce