Eni and BP have entered into a gas Exploration and Production Sharing Agreement (EPSA) for Block 77 in Oman, according to a press release.

Block 77 covers an area of 2,734 square kilometers located in Central Oman. Eni and BP will each hold a 50% interest in the EPSA, with Eni acting as the operator.

The deal follows a Heads of Agreement (HoA), which was signed on January 14 by the two companies with the Government of Oman.

The Italian company operates in Oman through its subsidiary Eni Oman. Eni also operates in the UAE, Bahrain, Lebanon, and Iraq.

Through the signature of the Block 77 EPSA, Eni says it is reinforcing its role as a vital player in the Omani market, bringing well-known experience in exploration and production (E&P) of new plays within existing oil and gas provinces.