KUWAIT CITY, Dec 24: Acting CEO of the Kuwait Gulf Oil Company (KGOC) Abdullah Ali Al-Sumaiti announced the gradual start-up of heavy oil reservoirs in Wafra field, and the production of the first batch of heavy oil (Eocene crude) in the Wafra joint operations area, reports Al-Anba daily. In a press statement, Al-Sumaiti affirmed that this step was taken following the tireless work of sincere national cadres on both the Kuwaiti and Saudi sides in the Wafra joint operations area throughout the period of work suspension to preserve the work assets and uphold their readiness to return to work, as well as the subsequent period of intensive preparations to return to operation and production as per the established plans.

He expressed appreciation for the continuous and relentless efforts of the workers in the area, which had a great impact on the implementation of the operational plans despite the challenges they faced during the last period due to the COVID-19 pandemic, in addition to the challenges represented by the difficulty in producing heavy oil in the cold weather.

Al-Sumaiti said, “We congratulate ourselves and all those working in Wafra joint operations area for the success of our operational and production plans and for being on the right path, in line with the strategic plans of 2040 of the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation on the one hand, and the plans with partners in the joint operations area - Saudi Chevron Company on the other.”

He stressed the keenness of the two sides to optimize the management of natural resources in the joint area in a way that would serve the common goals of both sides, which focus mainly on the production rates, infrastructure and the work community, assuring that safe production, and the safety of workers, work procedures, utilities and facilities is a permanent priority for KGOC in all stages of work. Al-Sumaiti concluded his statement by thanking the management of Saudi Chevron Corporation for its full support and continuous cooperation, and extended thanks to all workers in the Wafra joint operations area from both sides for their efforts and dedication.