What is the main purpose of TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanne's visit to Syria?

The main purpose of TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanne's visit to Syria is to discuss signing an exploration contract with Syrian counterparts, specifically regarding an offshore block in the Mediterranean, following a memorandum of understanding signed in May with the Syrian Petroleum Company.

Why does TotalEnergies consider Syria strategically important beyond offshore exploration?

TotalEnergies considers Syria strategically important as a transit route for Iraqi oil, with plans to build pipelines through Syria to transport oil from Iraq as an alternative to the Strait of Hormuz, especially amid geopolitical tensions stemming from the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran.

TotalEnergies CEO in Syria to Discuss Signing Exploration Contract

Jul 7, 2026

TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanne met Syrian counterparts to finalize an offshore exploration contract following a May MOU. Discussions also covered pipeline routes for Iraqi oil transit amid regional geopolitical tensions.

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