The Mumbai-based Essar has jointly with ENI of Italy pumped $300 million into Vietnam’s offshore Block 114, south-east, as the Indian group promoted by the Ruia family looks to expand its business partnerships in that country. Essar promoters Ravi Ruia and Prashant Ruia talked further in investment opportunities and areas of collaboration with Vietnam’s top leadership, the company said.

The Essar delegation led by the promoters met Vietnam National Assembly chairman Vuong Dinh Hue, deputy prime minister, who is also the president and CEO of PetroVietnam), Le Manh Hung besides senior officials said that Essar Exploration and Production Ltd is partnering ENI in Block 114, which is estimated to have two billion barrels of oil and gas resources. “Having invested over $300 million in Block 114, Essar and ENI are committed to a fast track development of the Ken-Bau basin while exploring for more hydrocarbons in the Dan Day basin and other prospects. Development of Block 114 is of utmost importance for energy interests of Vietnam."

The statement quoted Hue as saying, “Vietnam supports and will create conditions for Indian companies to continue their long term presence and expand operations related to oil and gas exploration and exploitation in its continental shelf”.

The statement stated by Essar Capital director Prashant Ruia says, “We are extremely excited about our business partnerships with Vietnam. The bilateral trade between both the countries has been steadily growing over the past two decades. Essar is committed to the development of Block 114, making it a significant resource for oil and gas in Vietnam's economy. We are confident that this block will provide strong impetus for Vietnam to become self-sufficient in its energy requirements in the future”.