Baghdad: The Iraqi government has announced the development of an implementation plan to supply Europe with Iraqi crude oil. Iraqi government spokesman Haider al-Aboudi confirmed this strategic move on Tuesday, highlighting alternative export routes through Turkey and Syria. This initiative aligns with the government’s vision to increase oil production to approximately or more than 10 million barrels per day by 2030.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, al-Aboudi stated, “The Prime Minister’s European tour, which began in Paris and continued in Berlin, was driven from the outset by economic, political, security, and investment considerations, based on the history of Iraqi-European relations and their impact on developing understanding and elevating it to advanced levels.” He emphasized that these relations have been translated into signed memoranda between the two sides in energy and security, particularly in technological air defenses.

Al-Aboudi also noted that during the Berlin visit, the energy file was a focal point. The Prime Minister engaged with more than 50 businessmen and representatives from German companies at the German Economic House. He extended an invitation aimed at bolstering trade and investment partnerships within the Iraqi environment to stimulate the Iraqi economy.

The spokesman explained that “the project to supply Europe with Iraqi crude oil is under consideration, and an implementation roadmap has been developed by the Iraqi government, specifically the Ministry of Oil, under the supervision and guidance of the Prime Minister.” The goal is to shield the Iraqi economy from regional conditions and the complexities affecting the Strait of Hormuz by exploring alternative routes towards Turkey and Syria for supplying the European market.

Al-Aboudi reiterated that Iraq’s strategy is to maximize oil production as part of a broader vision targeting a production rate of approximately or more than 10 million barrels per day by 2030. He pointed out that the flow of Iraqi oil to global markets is dictated by market indicators, with supplies reaching East Asia and Europe.

On the political front, Al-Aboudi affirmed Iraq’s commitment to diplomatic solutions to reduce regional tensions. He highlighted the government’s policy of non-alignment and its focus on engaging globally to ensure secure energy supplies and regional stability.

Addressing Iraqi communities in Europe, he mentioned that the government is attentive to their needs through diplomatic missions and seeks to leverage Iraqi expertise for mutual benefit.