New Iraqi Oil Minister Calls Kurdistan Region Oil File a 'Special Case,' Pledges Solutions

Peregraf — Basim Mohammed Khuzair, Iraq’s newly appointed oil minister, said the oil and gas file of the Kurdistan Region is a “special case” and pledged to work toward solutions and greater coordination between Baghdad and Erbil.

Speaking at a press conference, Khuzair said the Kurdistan Region’s oil sector should become “an industry similar to that of central and southern Iraq." 

Focus on Kurdistan Region Oil and Gas

Khuzair stated that Baghdad supports efforts to reach understandings with the Kurdistan Region and expand both oil and gas production.

“We support the Kurdistan Region in reaching an understanding and increasing production at both the gas and oil levels,” he said.

He added that the federal government seeks to protect the interests of both Baghdad and the Kurdistan Region, emphasizing that “oil and gas belong to all Iraqi people.”

The minister also stressed the principle of equal treatment for citizens in the Kurdistan Region compared to the rest of Iraq. 

“We insist that the people of the Kurdistan Region be treated equally to those in other parts of Iraq,” he said. 

Oil Production and Exports 

Khuzair said current daily oil production in Kirkuk and Basra combined stands at approximately 1.4 million barrels per day.

He added that Iraq currently exports around 200,000 barrels per day through Turkey’s Port of Ceyhan and said Baghdad aims to raise exports through the route to 500,000 barrels per day.

Longstanding Disputes

The Kurdistan Region’s oil and gas sector has remained one of the most contentious issues between Erbil and Baghdad for years, particularly over oil exports, revenue sharing, and control of natural resources. 

Recent negotiations between Kurdish and Iraqi political leaders have included renewed discussions over the stalled federal oil and gas law and the future of energy cooperation between the two sides.