Total Confirms Plans To Resume South Sudan Exploration

PARIS –  French oil major Total SA (TOT) Friday confirmed it was planning to resume its exploration activities in South Sudan, following the lifting of international sanctions, but declined to elaborate.

In a brief statement, Total said it "confirms that, following the independence of the Republic of South Sudan on July 9th 2011 and the subsequent lifting of sanctions, it is presently preparing the resumption of exploration activities on Block B with the authorities of the internationally recognized Republic of South Sudan."

A preparatory work program will be submitted to the new South Sudan authorities for their approval and "for this reason, it is premature to further comment on the subject," the group said.

Total said it is monitoring the situation in the Block B area to ensure the safety of its employees and contractors as soon as operations resume.

"Total's activities will be conducted in compliance with the group's code of conduct and all laws applicable to it, security remaining a priority," it noted.

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