Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar held discussions in Iraq to enhance cooperation in energy sectors including oil, electricity, and gas, resulting in agreements to double electricity supply and explore gas imports. His engagements involved key Iraqi officials and were prompted by recent changes in U.S. sanctions affecting Iraq’s energy procurement.
Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar conducted high-level negotiations in Iraq, focusing on enhancing cooperation in the oil, electricity, and gas sectors, alongside promoting bilateral trade. During his interactions in Baghdad on March 16, he engaged with Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein to address key issues regarding energy resources.
The discussions led to an agreement to double Türkiye’s electricity supply to Iraq, as confirmed by the Iraqi Foreign Ministry’s statement. The meeting also explored importing gas from Türkiye for Iraq’s power plants, aiming to bolster collaboration within this domain.
Additionally, Minister Bayraktar emphasized the importance of encouraging Turkish investments in Iraq’s oil and gas sector, aiming to provide necessary facilities for Turkish companies. His visit to Iraq coincided with the termination of a U.S. sanctions waiver affecting Iraq’s electricity purchases from Iran, thereby heightening the urgency of these discussions.
Further engagements included meetings with Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, wherein they evaluated strategies to deepen energy cooperation and enhance regional energy security. Bayraktar expressed commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership between Türkiye and Iraq through his statements on social media.
Further discussions involved Deputy Prime Minister and Oil Minister Hayyan Abdulgani and Electricity Minister Ziyad Ali Fadhil. Following Baghdad, Bayraktar traveled to Erbil to consult with Masrour Barzani, Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government, focusing on developing oil and electricity trade and fostering collaboration in hydrocarbon sectors involving both public and private entities.
In conclusion, Minister Alparslan Bayraktar’s visit to Iraq underscores Türkiye’s commitment to strengthening energy cooperation and bilateral trade with Iraq across oil, electricity, and gas sectors. Significant agreements were reached, particularly regarding the provision of electricity and the potential for gas imports, all aimed at enhancing energy security in the region and encouraging Turkish investments.
Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com
