Total announces the official signature of the agreement under which a consortium comprising Saudi Aramco, Shell and Total will explore a gas area covering more than 200,000 square kilometers in the southern part of the Rub Al-Khali (Empty Quarter) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The agreement was signed today in Riyadh by His Excellency Ali I. Al-Naimi, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, and the Chairmen of the three companies concerned.

Total, with a 30% interest, is partnered with Saudi Aramco (30%) and Shell (40%), leader of the joint venture that will be formed by year-end. Tenders for seismic surveying are expected to be issued in first-quarter 2004. In the event of a discovery, the gas produced will contribute to the industrial development of the Kingdom.

"Total is honored and delighted to have been chosen by Saudi Arabia to take part in the long-term development of its gas resources. This agreement will enable Total to further strengthen its long-standing cooperation with Saudi Aramco. Total will bring its experience, expertise and technology to the joint venture to ensure the project's success," commented Thierry Desmarest, Chairman and CEO of Total.