Syrian Oil Company official highlights Rmelan field development plans
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The Vice President of the Syrian Oil Company, Walid Yousef, said on Monday that efforts are underway to develop the Rmelan oil fields through international partnerships, highlighting what he described as a positive atmosphere during meetings with a visiting Syrian government delegation.
Speaking at a press conference in Rmelan, Yousef said his visit carried “two important indicators,” foremost among them the tone of discussions with government representatives. “The talks took place with complete openness,” he said, adding that it was the first time he had heard Syrian officers use language emphasizing the need to resolve the situation in the region and restore its productivity.
Yousef noted that such discourse had not been common in previous years, expressing appreciation for what he described as constructive communication and professional conduct. He said this approach had allowed the company to be present among the local community in Rmelan.
During his tour of oil facilities stretching from Deir ez-Zor to Rmelan, Yousef said he observed that infrastructure and equipment continued to operate despite the extensive damage inflicted on the region during years of conflict. He pointed to surface installations and pumping systems that had previously broken down but were later restored.
“The preservation of this equipment and the continuation of production deserve recognition,” Yousef said, crediting workers in the area for maintaining operations under difficult conditions.
He stressed that the next phase would require coordinated efforts to safeguard and expand production “for one Syria, and for all Syrians,” underscoring the importance of maintaining output while pursuing gradual development.
Addressing the political context, Yousef acknowledged that the region had been part of the Syrian uprising, noting that the company was aware of the history of civic movements there. He said this trajectory would continue within the framework of a unified Syrian state.
On living conditions, Yousef emphasized a commitment to improving the situation of workers in Rmelan. He said salaries and standards of living would not resemble those under the former system, describing that period as one that “ended with its culture.” He added that the goal was to reach wage levels comparable to those offered by international companies.
Regarding international cooperation, Yousef revealed that several agreements and memoranda of understanding had been signed with global oil firms, including Chevron, Conoco, and ADES, alongside other companies currently in negotiations. He said the aim was to develop oil fields in the near future by relying on local Syrian expertise while working with “partners and friends from abroad.”