Shell to exit Syria oilfield, Mooldijk departing and LNG stake sale talks

SHELSHEL

Shell is seeking to exit Syria’s largest oilfield, with U.S. firms showing interest in Al-Omar. The company also announced President of Projects and Technology Robin Mooldijk will step down Feb. 28 and is exploring LNG Canada stake sales with Mitsubishi.

1. Shell Moves to Exit Syria’s Al-Omar Oilfield

Shell is actively pursuing a complete withdrawal from the Al-Omar oilfield in eastern Syria, its largest asset in the country, as the Syrian government reasserts control over the region. The field, which has historically produced approximately 60,000 barrels per day, was operated under a joint venture structure with local entities. Shell has engaged in negotiations with government representatives and third-party brokers to divest its 50% working interest. Management anticipates the transaction could close by mid-year, freeing up an estimated $100 million in annual operating cash flow that the company plans to redeploy into higher-return projects.

2. Executive Committee Shake-Up: President of Projects & Technology to Step Down

On Tuesday, Shell announced that Robin Mooldijk, president of projects and technology, will leave the company effective February 28. During his tenure, Mooldijk oversaw the commissioning of major liquefied natural gas (LNG) trains in Australia and the final investment decision for the Appomattox deepwater project in the US Gulf of Mexico. His departure follows a broader reshuffle in Shell’s executive committee, including the appointment of two new regional heads for Asia Pacific and Latin America. Shell has launched an internal and external search for Mooldijk’s successor, with an advisory deadline in Q2, signaling a focus on continuity for approximately $15 billion in ongoing capital projects.

3. Shell and Mitsubishi Explore LNG Canada Stake Sales

Shell and its partner Mitsubishi Heavy Industries are in early talks to sell up to 10% of their combined stake in the LNG Canada project, which is currently delivering 14 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) of LNG from British Columbia. Shell holds a 40% interest in the venture. Proceeds from the potential divestment—estimated at $1.5–2.0 billion—would support a proposed 3 mtpa expansion, targeting first gas in 2028. Investor demand for stable LNG cash flows has driven interest from institutional buyers in Europe and Asia, where long-term contracts underpin revenue visibility. Shell expects any final agreement to be announced alongside its Q2 results.

Sources

ZZR