Genel Energy PLC (GENL.LN), an oil company, primarily focused on the Kurdistan region of Iraq , Thursday announced that it has expanded its exploration acreage after acquiring large stakes in two licenses, offshore Morocco and offshore Malta .

MAIN FACTS:

-Agreed to buy a 60% stake, and take operatorship, in an exploration and production license in the Sidi Moussa Offshore Block, offshore
Morocco from Serica Energy PLC (SQZ.T), San Leon Energy PLC (SLE.LN) and Longreach Oil & Gas Ltd. (LOI.V).

-The current holders of Sidi Moussa comprise Serica Sidi Moussa B.V, San Leon Offshore Morocco B.V and Longreach Oil and Gas Ventures Limited, who collectively hold a 75% equity interest, and are the vendors.

-The remaining 25% interest is held by the Office National des Hydrocarbures et de Mines.

-Genel Energy will acquire a 60% participating interest in Sidi Moussa from the Vendors pro rate according to their equity interests.

-The consideration comprises an initial payment of $1.3 million in recognition of past costs plus an exploration carry for the drilling of the commitment well required in the First Extension Period, of up to the first $50 million gross cost.

-These will be funded from the Company's existing cash resources.

-In Malta, Genel has agreed to buy a 75% stake in the Production Sharing Contract in Area 4, including Blocks 4,5,6 & 7, offshore Malta from Mediterranean Oil & Gas PLC (MOG.LN)

-The consideration comprises an initial payment of $10 million in recognition of past costs, plus a 100% carry on the first exploration well and a 100% carry on the second well of up to a maximum of $30 million gross cost.

-These will be funded from the Company's existing cash resources.

-Genel shares clsoed Wednesday at 694.5 pence.