The Syrian Petroleum Company (SPC), in collaboration with U.S.-based energy firm ConocoPhillips and Novaterra, has finalized an agreement in Damascus to advance the development of new natural gas fields and augment production at existing facilities. This strategic partnership was announced through a joint statement detailing the expansion of cooperation within the Syrian gas sector.
The foundation for this Syrian gas development agreement was laid in November 2025 with a memorandum of understanding signed by the three companies aimed at fostering broader collaboration in the gas sector.
Syria’s energy infrastructure has been significantly impacted by the prolonged civil conflict, resulting in a diminished capacity to meet its own electricity demands. Statistics indicate a considerable decline in domestic natural gas production, falling to an estimated 3 billion cubic metres in 2023 from 8.7 bcm recorded in 2011.
The Syrian Energy Minister Mohamed al-Bashir emphasized that the primary objectives of this latest Syrian gas development deal are to bolster the stability of the country’s electricity network and contribute to its overall economic recovery.
Ryan Lance, Chairman and CEO of ConocoPhillips, said, “We hope to grow the gas production in the country, and I hope that that expands beyond that to something even more significant for our company and more significant for the country of Syria.”
ConocoPhillips previously operated in Syria until approximately twenty years ago. In May 2026, the company engaged in discussions with other major energy players, including TotalEnergies, QatarEnergy, and the Syrian Petroleum Company, to initiate a technical review of the offshore Block 3 area, located near the coastal city of Latakia.
Alex Macdonald, CEO of Novaterra Energy, outlined his company’s commitment, noting that they will be providing essential training and access to advanced software and technology to establish their operations within Syria.
Youssef Qabalawi, CEO of the Syrian Petroleum Company, indicated in 2025 that the partnership aims to achieve an increase in gas output by 4 to 5 million cubic metres per day within a one-year timeframe, pointing to an accelerated timeline for tangible results from this investment in natural gas production.
