Iraq reviews gas blocks and foreign partnerships to lift production

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq’s Oil Ministry is assessing exploration blocks and partnerships with international companies as part of efforts to increase domestic natural gas production. The review includes the potential of existing blocks and the performance of foreign partnerships. The ministry said the primary objective is to reduce dependence on imported natural gas and raise local output. Midland Oil Company, a state-owned company headquartered in Baghdad, is involved in the process, which is being coordinated from the capital. Iraq’s longstanding energy production shortfall has directly affected the operation of power plants and industrial facilities. The ministry said investment plans may be updated on a block-by-block basis following the analysis, while the terms of contracts with international partners are also under review.