KazMunayGas, Chinese oilfield services company COSL agree on technology transfer

ASTANA. April 14 (Interfax) - KMG Drilling & Services, a subsidiary of the Kazakh national company JSC KazMunayGas (KMG), and the Chinese company China Oilfield Services Limited (COSL), which provides services in the oil production industry, have signed a framework agreement on cooperation in oilfield services.

The document provides for an expansion of partnership in drilling and service activities on Kazakh territory, covering areas such as drilling, well services, joint participation in projects, technology transfer and the development of local content, KMG's press service said.

"Of particular interest is the promotion of the competencies of Kazakh oilfield service companies with the assistance of partners from China," KMG Board Chairman Askat Khasenov was quoted as saying.

KMG Engineering LLP and COSL have begun joint work on introducing new technologies in field development, drilling and repair operations, the press service said.

Training of specialists from KMG Group at the production facilities of the Chinese company is also planned.

China Oilfield Services Limited was founded in 2001. It is part of the China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), and is one of the largest international oilfield services companies.

KazMunayGas is the Kazakh national operator for hydrocarbon exploration, production, refining, and transportation, representing the state's interests in the oil and gas industry.