The block is located within "the poorly studied part of the Arabian plate" 80 kilometers south of the Iraqi city of Samawah.
"The exploration well was successfully drilled to a depth of 4,277 meters. As a result of the tests, an inflow of oil was obtained, which gives grounds to expect the discovery of industrial reserves," the statement read.
According to the company, the discovery is an important milestone in the development of exploration and production projects abroad.
Bashneft International is the operator of the block's exploration and development, while Chinese Zhongman Petroleum and Natural Gas Group is a general contractor for drilling operations.
(Anadolu Agency, May 24, 2018)