Junior partner Hardman Resources said the Chinguetti early development well drilled in late 2003 will also be tied into the production system, resulting in the planned six producing wells being on stream at the end of the first phase of development.

“The ‘West Navigator’ drilling rig remains in the Chinguetti field and is continuing work on the installation of well completion equipment,” said a company statement.

“As of 31 May 2005, sand completion equipment had been installed on 7 of the 10 new wells, and this work will be followed by the installation of the production tubing and subsea trees before connecting the wells to the Berge Helene Floating Production Storage and Offtake (FPSO) Vessel for production.”

Hardman said the drilling results from Chinguetti were positive, either meeting or exceeding expectations.

“On the assumption that early well performance remains in line with forecasts, Hardman anticipates that this will result in an increase in proven reserves when it carries out its initial reserves redetermination,” the company said.

“The project is now over 71% complete and the target date for first oil from the Chinguetti field remains quarter 1, 2006.”