Iraq, Shell discuss gas investment and production plans in Basra

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Oil Ministry held talks with Shell on plans to expand gas production in Basra oil fields, the ministry said. Deputy Oil Minister Nasir Aziz met with the company's Iraq and UAE Director, Fahir Bedir, to review joint cooperation and projects aimed at raising the output capacity of the Basra Gas Company. The discussions also covered company plans to capture and process larger volumes of associated gas from several oil fields, as well as projects to increase production and exports of naphtha and liquefied petroleum gas. Aziz described gas investment as a priority for the government and the ministry, citing its role in supporting the energy system and reducing gas flaring. According to the ministry statement, the two sides stressed the need to accelerate plans to develop gas projects and make the most efficient use of associated gas.