Offshore staff

(Asia) - Osaka Gas has joined forces with Sumitomo Corp. in oil and gas development. As part of the move, the companies will take part in Idemitsu Kosan's development project in the Snore oilfield off the coast of Norway, 210 km northwest of Bergen.

Osaka Gas will transfer its 149,660 common shares (49.5% shares outstanding) in Idemitsu Snorre Oil Development to Osaka Gas Summit Resources, a joint venture established by Osaka Gas and Sumitomo's wholly owned Petro Summit Investment.

Osaka Gas and Sumitomo will also form a business alliance to acquire and manage interests and assets in oil and gas field development.

10/19/05