Iraq and Turkey Strengthen Energy Cooperation: New Agreements in Electricity and Gas Supply
Fouad Hussein, Iraq’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, has reached an agreement with Alp Arslan Bayrakdar, Turkey’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, to enhance bilateral energy collaboration. This agreement, finalized during a meeting on Sunday at the Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aims to double the electricity supply from Turkey to Iraq and explore the possibility of importing natural gas to support local power plants.
Focus on Joint Energy Projects
The discussions centered on advancing joint energy projects, addressing critical issues related to electricity, natural gas, and oil. The aim is to foster cooperation in the energy sector that reflects the strengthening relations between Iraq and Turkey and meets the energy needs of both nations.
The two sides underscored the importance of attracting Turkish investment in Iraq’s oil and gas sector, along with ensuring the necessary operational and legal frameworks to facilitate this investment. Furthermore, the potential for Turkey to supply electricity to Iraq during peak demand seasons was highlighted, alongside the critical objective of expediting the completion of an electrical linkage project.
Key Agreements and Highlights
A key outcome of the discussions was the commitment to double the electricity supply from Turkey, significantly benefiting the Kurdistan Region and the city of Mosul. Additionally, talks included the renewal of the Jihan oil pipeline contract, with a suggestion to extend the pipeline southward to bolster Iraq’s oil export capacity and improve access to European markets.
Another significant topic was the potential importation of natural gas from Turkey, which would support energy generation in Iraq. Both parties recognized the necessity of ongoing collaboration in this area.
At the conclusion of the meeting, both ministers emphasized the importance of continuous coordination and monitoring of mutual interests in the energy sector.
Further Developments in Energy Cooperation
Earlier on the same day, Iraqi Electricity Minister Ziyad Ali Fadel met with Minister Bayrakdar in Baghdad, alongside Turkish Ambassador Anil Bora Inan. They discussed future strategies for collaboration in the energy sector, focusing on improving the electrical connection between Iraq and Turkey.
Minister Fadel confirmed that Iraq is fully prepared to increase its energy intake via the Iraqi-Turkish connection to 600 megawatts. He proposed establishing a joint technical committee to oversee the execution of the agreements reached.
In response, Minister Bayrakdar indicated that the forthcoming months would see a doubling of electricity supplies through the joint transmission line, emphasizing Turkey’s commitment to strengthening ties with Baghdad in energy matters.
Current Infrastructure and Future Prospects
It is important to note that the joint electrical connection (Kisk – 400kv) commenced operations last July, currently delivering 300 megawatts to Iraq. This infrastructure plays a vital role in meeting Iraq’s energy requirements.
Minister Bayrakdar’s visit to Baghdad marks a significant step towards enhancing energy cooperation between Iraq and Turkey, with both countries poised to capitalize on mutual benefits in the sector, thereby addressing local energy needs and expanding export capabilities.