Baghdad: Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi has emphasized the urgent need to accelerate the rehabilitation and development of Iraq’s oil pipelines, while also advocating for partnerships with international companies to enhance the marketing and sale of Iraqi oil.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, this statement came after an expanded meeting chaired by al-Zaidi involving key figures from the Ministry of Oil, including the Ministers of Finance and Oil, the Director of the Prime Minister’s Office, and various undersecretaries and directors general. The meeting reviewed plans and strategies set by the Ministry, focusing on the mechanisms to address the challenges posed by the Strait of Hormuz crisis, and proposed solutions to ensure the uninterrupted flow of Iraqi oil exports and to boost export capacity.

The discussions highlighted the current challenges facing the oil sector, particularly the impact of the Strait of Hormuz closure, which has significantly reduced Iraqi oil exports. The meeting explored potential policies and strategies to mitigate the effects of this crisis, sustain oil exports, and develop alternative export routes.

Al-Zaidi commended the Ministry of Oil for its efforts during these challenging times and instructed oil companies to maintain round-the-clock operations to ensure the continuity and increase of production and export activities. He emphasized that the current crisis should be seen as an opportunity to develop the oil infrastructure and expand export channels.

The Prime Minister pointed out that the Ministry of Oil has numerous viable solutions and opportunities that need to be urgently implemented to achieve swift and tangible outcomes.