Nabilah S
Italian energy giant Eni has received an invitation from Petroleum Minister Jimmy Maladina to explore investment opportunities in Papua New Guinea’s petroleum sector.
Maladina emphasized Papua New Guinea’s vast resource potential and the upcoming international bid rounds for new exploration blocks.
As part of the ongoing Production Sharing Contract (PSC) feasibility consultations, Maladina and his delegation met with various stakeholders, including existing regional contractors.
Among them was Eni Asia Pacific, a key player in deepwater exploration and development.
In talks with Eni Asia Pacific Head Roberto Daniale, Minister Maladina reaffirmed PNG’s commitment to a competitive and transparent investment environment.
He highlighted the government’s efforts to unlock petroleum prospects along the Gulf of Papua and Papua coastline, with several blocks set for international bidding under the Department of Petroleum and Energy.
“PNG offers significant opportunities for responsible, well-capitalized investors. With Eni’s expertise in deepwater exploration and development, we encourage them to expand into PNG,” Minister Maladina said.
Mr. Daniale conveyed Eni’s strong interest, confirming that the company has been evaluating potential opportunities in PNG.
Eni has requested additional details on the upcoming bid rounds once officially announced.
Minister Maladina reiterated that PNG is ushering in a new era of petroleum sector management, with strict enforcement of license conditions and an end to speculative warehousing of exploration rights.
“We are committed to awarding licenses only to genuine investors with the financial and technical capacity to develop our resources,” he added.
As PNG strengthens its position in the regional energy market, the government remains committed to attracting top-tier investors to drive sustainable resource development and long-term economic growth.
