We signed a memorandum of understanding with the state-owned Syrian Petroleum Company and Syrian Gas Company, said Christophe de Margerie, Total’s chief executive officer.

Another deal signed between the two companies was to renew the license for the Deir Ez Zor energy projects by Total for 10 years to 2021 enabling further production from the Jafra, Qahar and Atalla fields. This project is owned by Total but is jointly operated by Total and Syrian Petroleum Company.

In the third agreement signed between the two sides, Total agreed to increase its gas production and delivery to Syrian market from the Tabiyeh gas and condensate field.

The French oil company produced 29,000 barrels of oil per day in Syria in 2007.

The deals “pave the way for increased cooperation between Total and Syria and bolster our partnership with the national oil companies of this country,” said de Margerie.

De Margerie has traveled to Syria as part of a delegation accompanying the French President in the country.

Damascus, SANA 5 September 2008