Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and Turkish Diplomacy Strengthen Ties
Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Prime Minister Masrour Barzani held discussions with Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Beris Ikci in Erbil on Tuesday, February 18, 2025. The meeting aimed to enhance bilateral relations, particularly focusing on trade and energy sectors.
Despite a significant halt in oil exports from the Kurdistan Region and Kirkuk, where daily shipments exceeding 450,000 barrels through the Iraqi-Turkish pipeline to Ceyhan were disrupted on March 25, discussions have centered on potentially resuming operations. A key factor has been the contentious issue of extraction and transportation fees, which saw a substantial increase from $6 to $16 per barrel following the Iraqi parliament’s approval of the budget law on November 2. This rate will be monitored by a committee over a 60-day period before final adjustments are made.
Both Prime Minister Barzani and Deputy Foreign Minister Ikci underscored the urgency of restarting oil exports via the port of Jayhan, especially in light of the recent amendments to the federal budget law addressing extraction and transportation costs.
“We are fully prepared to resume our oil exports. We anticipate operations may recommence by the end of March,” stated President Nechirvan Barzani during a recent interview.
Strategic Infrastructure and Regional Stability
In addition to energy discussions, the leaders addressed a proposed development initiative aimed at linking Gulf countries and Iraq to Turkey and Europe through railway infrastructure. The KRG emphasized the significance of its participation in this strategic project, which could enhance connectivity and economic ties.
The meeting also included discussions on the evolving situation in Syria, where security and stability are paramount. The necessity for ensuring the rights of the Kurdish population and other communities within Syria was reiterated, highlighting ongoing regional concerns.