The Kurdistan Oil Industry Group, known as APICOR, made a strong statement this week. The group stressed that no oil exports without written deal can move forward. This clear condition comes during sensitive discussions between Erbil, Baghdad, and international companies.
APICOR highlighted that member companies cannot restart shipments without a binding framework. The companies demand a written agreement with both the federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government. This agreement must define roles, clarify payments, and outline financial responsibilities. The spokesperson noted that only such an arrangement can bring stability to the industry.
Negotiations are ongoing behind closed doors. Talks include government representatives and oil company officials. These discussions focus on how to manage past debts and future payments. APICOR stressed again that no oil exports without written deal will proceed until these points are guaranteed.
Oil exports through the Iraq-Turkey pipeline have been halted since March 25, 2023. The suspension has already caused significant losses. Estimates suggest the financial damage is close to 30 billion dollars. This heavy cost has affected both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
When asked about responsibility for delays, APICOR avoided blame. Instead, the group pointed toward dialogue as the only solution. The spokesperson stressed that progress depends on cooperation and on Baghdad’s commitment to reopening the pipeline. According to the group, resuming exports can ease budget disputes and salary challenges in the Kurdistan Region.
APICOR also drew attention to international backing. The group underlined that Washington, both past and present administrations, supports efforts to restart the pipeline. They stressed that Baghdad also views reopening as a national priority.
The group clarified that the demand is not for new contracts. Instead, APICOR wants mechanisms that enforce existing contracts signed with the Kurdistan Regional Government. They urged the central government, the Ministry of Oil, and SOMO to honor past agreements.
Finally, the spokesperson emphasized that all new frameworks comply with Iraqi budget law. The companies, they explained, work within the laws of both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. For APICOR, the path forward is simple: no oil exports without written deal.
