BAGHDAD: Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani announced on Saturday that his government has begun efforts to revive the Iraqi-Syrian oil export route, as part of a broader strategy to diversify export channels and boost refining capacity.
Speaking at the Baghdad International Energy Forum, Al-Sudani revealed that discussions to reactivate the route had taken place several weeks ago. He also noted that work is currently underway on the 685-kilometre Basra–Haditha pipeline, which is aligned with the initiative.
“Iraqi oil will continue to feed global markets for more than 120 years at the least estimates, although our export share is not commensurate with the size of the reserve, productive capacity, and population,” he said, according to the Iraq News Agency.
Al-Sudani underscored the government’s push to attract investment, especially in refining and gas utilization.
He added Iraq aims to end the flaring of associated gas and make full use of around 1.3 billion standard cubic feet per day.
Al-Sudani also highlighted ongoing expansions at existing refineries, the inauguration of the Karbala refinery, and the launch of six new investment opportunities in the refining sector aimed at enhancing collaboration with the private sector.
He stated that Iraq’s strategic objective is to convert at least 40 percent of its crude oil production into higher-value derivatives by 2030. Several projects have already been initiated to support this long-term vision.
