Strengthening Partnerships and Building Momentum in Syria

Each visit to Damascus reinforces my confidence in the future of Syria’s energy sector and the opportunities ahead.

Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of meeting His Excellency Eng. Maher Khalil Al-Hassan, the newly appointed CEO and
President of the Syrian Petroleum Company (SPC). I warmly congratulated him on his appointment and wished him every
success in his new role.

We enjoyed a very positive and constructive discussion about the recovery and future development of Syria’s oil and gas
industry, the important role of international investment and the considerable opportunities ahead.

I was particularly pleased to share the progress Gulfsands has made at Block 26 since returning to operations earlier this year,
and to reaffirm our longstanding commitment to Syria and the development of its natural resources.
Later in the week, Eng. Al-Hassan opened the 36th Board of Directors meeting of Dijla Petroleum Company, our second such
meeting since operations resumed.

This was another important milestone, reflecting the considerable progress achieved in a relatively short period and the
renewed momentum behind Block 26.

The meeting brought together representatives of SPC, Sinochem and Gulfsands for constructive discussions on operational
progress, development planning and the next phase of investment for the project.

It was particularly encouraging to welcome new Board members and to see the continued engagement and determination
of all involved to realise Block 26’s considerable potential.

My sincere thanks to Eng. Al-Hassan for his warm welcome and constructive engagement, and to our colleagues and partners
for their continued efforts.

Gulfsands has a long history in Syria, and we are proud to be playing an active role in the recovery of its oil and gas industry.
We look forward to building on the progress achieved and contributing to a sustainable and prosperous future for Syria and
its people.