APIKUR Refutes Claims of Blaming Erbil for Oil Export Delays, 1 APRIL

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The Association of the Petroleum Industry of Kurdistan (APIKUR) has dismissed recent claims suggesting that it holds Erbil responsible for the prolonged suspension of oil exports through the Iraq-Türkiye pipeline. In a statement released on social media, APIKUR rebuffed a commentary and tweet from Asharq Al-Awsat’s English-language platform (@aawsat_eng), calling the assertion inaccurate.

“APIKUR member companies appreciate Prime Minister Barzani and other KRG leaders’ vigorous public and private efforts to restore oil exports through the Iraq-Türkiye pipeline that will boost prosperity for all Iraqis,” APIKUR stated. The industry group also urged the public to follow its official handle (@apikur_oil) for accurate updates on the issue.

The dispute over oil exports stems from the March 2023 arbitration ruling by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), which led Türkiye to halt the transportation of Kurdish crude through its Ceyhan port. Since then, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), has been negotiating with Baghdad to resume oil exports, which are vital for the Kurdistan Region’s economy and Iraq as well.

Despite these efforts, political and technical hurdles have hindered the process, causing frustration among energy companies operating in the Kurdistan Region. APIKUR has consistently advocated for a swift resolution, emphasizing that a restart of oil exports would benefit all parties involved, including the federal government in Baghdad.

With ongoing diplomatic engagements between the KRG, the Iraqi government, and Türkiye, stakeholders remain hopeful that a breakthrough will soon be reached, enabling the resumption of exports and stabilizing the region’s energy sector.

Kurdistan24.net