Norway's
Oil Ministry announced a new licensing round in predefined areas offering 47
blocks in the Norwegian Sea and 56 blocks in the Barents Sea for 2018, the
ministry announced late Monday.
The
ministry said the deadline for applications is Feb. 28.
The
ministry noted that the allocation of new attractive exploration areas is a
prelude to the government's petroleum policy focusing on exploration and on
attracting more investors to the Barents Sea.
Minister
of oil Terje Soviknes said that through a solid expansion with blocks in the
Norwegian Sea and Barents Sea, the government is proposing effective and timely
exploration and activities for the future.
"I
strongly believe that oil companies will still see interesting opportunities in
these areas, thus contributing to employment, value creation and welfare,"
he said.
(Anadolu Agency)