Turkey signed a $100mn oil exploration deal with Sudan in Khartoum during Turkish agriculture and forestry minister Bekir Pakdemirli’s 9-11 September visit, reflecting the two countries’ growing ties in the increasingly contested region.

Though details are scant, the ministry says Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO) will explore for oil in an “area” yet to be disclosed. In addition, Sudan has designated 780km² of land for Turkish agricultural companies to develop. (CONTINUED - 199 WORDS)