DAMASCUS, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- The state-run Syrian Petroleum Company has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with international energy companies ConocoPhillips and Nova Terra Energy to develop several natural gas fields and launch new exploration programs, the Syrian energy authorities said Tuesday.
The agreement aimed to strengthen cooperation in the natural gas sector and boost national production, the authorities said in a statement, adding that all development and exploration work would be carried out using advanced technical standards.
The MoU was part of the war-torn country's broader effort to build partnerships with international companies and upgrade oil and gas infrastructure, and is expected to generate additional economic returns while supporting Syria's economic recovery, according to the Syrian energy authorities.
On Monday, a shipment of 650,000 barrels of crude oil arrived in Syria as part of Saudi Arabia's grant to support the country's energy sector.
Syria faces acute electricity and energy shortages due to prolonged conflicts and sanctions.
