Iraq to build new oil export pipelines to Ceyhan and Baniyas, oil minister says

WASHINGTON, United States — WASHINGTON — Iraq plans to build a new oil pipeline system extending from the Basra-Fishkhapur line to Turkey's Ceyhan port, Iraqi Oil Minister Baisam Muhammad Hadid said at a press conference in Washington. The minister said a coalition that includes U.S. firms TI Capital and Chevron, along with Qatar-based UCC, would carry out the project, and that a second pipeline is planned to run from Hit to Syria's Baniyas port. Hadid said the two routes would give Iraq export alternatives beyond the Strait of Hormuz, adding that financial and economic obstacles had previously prevented the plans from moving forward. He also said an Iraqi oil company could join as a partner if needed. The minister addressed ongoing gas investments aimed at meeting domestic electricity demand, citing work at the Akaz and Mansuriya fields and at Total's Artawi field, as well as additional projects tied to the fifth and sixth gas block rounds. He added that a broad working process involving multiple U.S. companies in Iraq's oil and electricity sectors would begin in the coming period. Hadir said talks with OPEC on raising Iraq's export ceiling are continuing and that additional revenue is needed for reconstruction and improved living conditions. He acknowledged that recent clashes temporarily affected production and exports, but noted that 15-20 international companies, including BP, Eni and Chinese firms, continue operating in the country. On ties with the Kurdistan Region, he said a tripartite agreement between the ministry, the regional government and oil companies requires all exports to be channeled through the Iraqi state oil marketer SOMO.