Baghdad:Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Affairs, Mohsen Al-Mandalawi, has stated that the government’s upcoming work program will prioritize support for the Ministry of Oil and reputable companies operating in Iraq.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Mandalawi made these remarks during a meeting with ExxonMobil’s President in Iraq and the UAE, Mohammed Amin. The meeting, held at Al-Mandalawi’s residence in Baghdad, was attended by Oil Minister Bassem Mohammed Al-Abadi.

The discussions centered on enhancing Iraq’s oil exports and increasing the country’s export capacity to boost revenues. The meeting also addressed challenges in oil transportation and marketing, the attraction of major international energy companies, diversification of energy sources, and maximizing their potential.

Al-Mandalawi emphasized that the government’s agenda aims to achieve self-sufficiency in petroleum products and develop gas fields. He highlighted the significance of adopting modern extraction technologies, expanding exploration activities, and upgrading refining operations to strengthen Iraq’s energy sector.

Furthermore, Al-Mandalawi underscored the importance of leveraging ExxonMobil’s expertise, particularly concerning the giant Majnoon oil field in Basra, while expanding exploration and production activities and modernizing the country’s refineries.