Delek Group Ltd.
executives are expected in
Athens
this week to hold initial talks
with the Greek government over energy exploration south of
Crete
, Greek financial website
"Capital" reports.
Sources told the website that talks would focus on the business aspects
of exploratory operations but contacts with the Ministry of Environment, Energy
and Climate Change could not be ruled out.
The website noted that, under the new law
on hydrocarbons and new regulations, promoted by Deputy Energy Minister Ioannis
Maniatis, there are three licenses for exploration and production of oil. Bids
will be assessed, and the ministry will issue an invitation within 90 days.
The Greek government declined to comment
regarding the potential interest of specific companies in the area south of
Crete
. However, Maniatis said
recently that there is major interest in the region and there might be drilling
by the end of 2012.
Delek units Avner Oil
and Gas LP andDelek Drilling LP are partners in the Yam Tethys, Tamar. Dalit,
and Leviathan licenses withNoble Energy Inc..
The Greek website also said that Delek holds a 5% stake in Noble Energy.