The government of South Sudan has increased pressure on France’s Total to commit to a program of exploration on its acreage in the country by announcing that it is opening it up to other bidders.

“We have decided ... to open opportunities to other potential investors,” said oil minister Ezekiel Lol Gatkuoth in a 22 April statement. The decision made good on a threat made by the minister on 21 March: “You cannot hold my block for 30 years and think that I will be celebrating and dancing with you,” he said. “This is my resource and it is my country and it is my oil. You must do it my way and if you don’t do it my way, get out.” (CONTINUED - 685 WORDS)