The United States has voiced strong support for a new partnership between ExxonMobil and Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC), aimed at accelerating offshore natural gas exploration and production in the country.

In a statement, the U.S. Embassy in Libya described the memorandum of understanding (MoU) as a positive step that would benefit both nations. It also noted the longstanding role of American energy companies in driving global oil and gas development.

Signed on Monday in London, the agreement gives ExxonMobil the framework to conduct advanced geological and geophysical studies across four offshore blocks — including sites off Libya’s northwest coast and in the Sirte Basin. These studies will evaluate the full hydrocarbon potential of the areas before moving toward production.

For Libya, the deal comes at a pivotal time as it works to revive its energy sector and attract more foreign investment. With global demand for natural gas on the rise, the country sees its offshore reserves as a key driver of economic growth and energy security.

The U.S. Embassy said the agreement fits into a broader vision of deepening economic cooperation between the two countries. ExxonMobil, which has already shown interest in Libya’s latest licensing round of 22 exploration blocks, is expected to play a major role in this effort.