Maksut Anderjanov, head of the representative office of Gazprom Zarubezhneftegaz in Uzbekistan, said the main task for 2010 is to complete updated programme on exploration, complete seismic exploration, carry out construction of nine prospect wells, drill about 15,000 meters. Currently, the company carries out work at seven perspective areas, including to drill at five of them and trial in two.

The company has already invested about $300 million, including $84 million in 2009, in geological exploration in the area, Anderzhanov also said.

The Government of Uzbekistan approved updated programme on exploration works at Gazprom till the end of 2011. The programme envisages exploration works at Agyin, Aktum, Nasambek and Shahpahta investmentment blocks.

Within the programme, the enterprise will carry out 2D seismic works at 1,600 km and 3D seismic works at 400 sq. km. It will also drill 8 prospect wells at the volume of 36,600 meters and five exploration wells with the volume of 12,000 meters.

In 2011, the Russian company will calculate hydrocarbon reserves and complete preparation exploration reports by the end of 2011.