Baghdad:Iraq has definitively addressed rumors regarding its intentions to store crude oil abroad, confirming that no agreements have been finalized with any countries or companies for such a plan. This statement comes despite several offers and discussions that have occurred over the past few months.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Salim Al-Rikabi, spokesperson for the Iraqi Ministry of Oil, stated that the proposal to store oil overseas remains under consideration, and Baghdad has not entered into any final contracts. He mentioned that while various companies, including those in the Sultanate of Oman and Singapore, have submitted proposals, these have not yet developed into formal agreements.

Al-Rikabi also clarified that Iraqi crude oil is not being exported through Syria or Jordan, specifying that exports through these nations are limited to fuel oil rather than crude oil. He emphasized that all discussions regarding the storage of Iraqi oil abroad are still in the study phase and that there is no current agreement with any foreign entities.

Earlier, the Iraqi State Oil Marketing Organization (SOMO) held discussions with international entities to explore the possibility of overseas crude oil storage, aiming to enhance marketing options and access global markets. However, Al-Rikabi reiterated that these proposals remain under review, with no binding agreements reached.