The Chairman of Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC), Masoud Suleiman, has urged Schlumberger Middle East (SLB) to establish local branches of its major manufacturing plants in Libya, including facilities for producing essential oilfield components such as pumps and wellheads.

Speaking during a high-level meeting in London with SLB executives José Lamaza and Gökhan Yaram, Suleiman emphasized the importance of localizing oil and gas services to support Libya’s long-term energy ambitions. He was joined by Mohamed Ben Shatwan, Chairman of the Arabian Gulf Oil Company.

According to the NOC, discussions centered on SLB’s potential to deepen its operational presence in Libya and partner in building a strong domestic supply chain. Suleiman pointed out that opening SLB factories in the country would generate jobs for Libyan youth, stimulate the private sector, cut import-related costs, and help meet the growing demands of the local oil industry.

He also highlighted NOC’s goal to empower Libyan engineers and technicians through targeted training and capacity-building programs, expressing confidence in SLB’s role as a reliable development partner. The meeting touched on broader objectives like reducing gas flaring, addressing sour gas issues, and promoting environmentally sustainable practices.

The talks form part of NOC’s broader push to prepare for a new exploration phase by the end of 2025 and enhance Libya’s competitiveness in the global energy market.