The Iraqi Prime Minister, Mohammed Shiite al-Sudani, and Vagit Alekperov, the former head of Lukoil and the chair of Russia’s Committee of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, met privately to discuss the status and activities of Russian companies operating in Iraq. The meeting was officially announced by the Iraqi Prime Minister’s press service and confirmed through a public update on the channel used by the government. The dialogue focused on current projects, future plans, and the ways in which bilateral cooperation could be aligned with Iraq’s energy priorities. (Source: Iraqi Prime Minister’s press service)
During the broadcast of the meeting, the officials stated that Alekperov and his accompanying delegation exchanged views with the Iraqi side about ongoing initiatives and collaborative efforts. The conversation underscored a mutual interest in sustaining a stable, transparent operating environment for foreign partners within Iraq’s oil sector and highlighted the importance of constructive engagement between government authorities and industry leaders. (Source: Iraqi Prime Minister’s press service)
According to the press service, the parties reviewed plans for the development of the West Qurna and Eridu oil fields, in which Lukoil maintains operations. Analysts note that these fields are central to Iraq’s ambition to expand production capacity and to modernize field infrastructure. Discussions also addressed practical steps to remove obstacles that slow progress, including regulatory bottlenecks, logistical challenges, and the alignment of project timetables with national energy goals. The dialogue touched on Lukoil’s participation in broader energy projects in Iraq and the consideration of new licensing rounds for oil production, signaling a continued appetite for international collaboration in the country’s petroleum sector. (Source: Iraqi Prime Minister’s press service)
Earlier in the year, the Iraqi government signaled openness to involving other major foreign energy companies, inviting Gazprom to participate in the development of the Nasiriyah oil field in southern Iraq. This invitation reflects Iraq’s strategy to diversify partnerships and leverage the expertise and investment capacity of leading energy players. The discussion around Gazprom’s potential role illustrates how the government seeks to balance long-standing international partnerships with the evolving energy landscape in the region. (Source: Iraqi Prime Minister’s press service)
Observers note that regional conflicts and tensions in the Middle East can ripple through oil markets, influencing supply, pricing, and investment decisions. A former Iraqi prime minister emphasized that conflicts in the region could affect oil deliveries and the security of supply chains. The statements underscore the intertwined nature of geopolitics and energy, reminding stakeholders of the need for stable, predictable policy environments to attract and sustain foreign investment. (Source: Iraqi Prime Minister’s press service)