Turkey is in discussions with U.S. energy giant Chevron to potentially collaborate on oil and gas exploration, according to a Turkish official familiar with the talks.

The discussions would involve joint seismic surveys and drilling operations, although details of specific projects remain undisclosed.
The proposed partnership reflects Turkey’s ongoing efforts to strengthen domestic energy production and reduce reliance on imports.

Ankara has been actively expanding Turkish Petroleum Corporation’s (TPAO) operations both at home and abroad, including in the Black Sea, Iraq, Russia, and Somalia, and has previously conducted exploration in the eastern Mediterranean. Chevron also operates in the region, with existing fields in Israeli and Cypriot waters.

This potential collaboration comes shortly after Turkey signed an agreement with ExxonMobil in January for joint exploration in the Black Sea and Mediterranean, signaling a broader warming of U.S.-Turkey energy relations.

TPAO has been investing in specialized offshore exploration vessels and recently announced plans to raise up to $4 billion through its first Islamic debt issuance.

Chevron confirmed it is evaluating opportunities globally but declined to comment on commercial negotiations. Turkey’s Energy Ministry and TPAO did not provide responses to requests for comment.

If finalized, the Chevron partnership could mark another strategic step for Turkey as it seeks to diversify energy sources and strengthen its position in regional oil and gas markets.