Gulf Keystone Petroleum Share Discussion Threads

[martyre] 24/3/2024 10:04

I see APIKUR in their 23rd March update have stated the White House should not proceed with the 15th April visit of the Iraqi Prime Minister unless the pipeline is openedWill APIKUR have any credibility if the visit proceeds without the pipeline opening?It is clear Iraq does not want to deal with APIKUR as they have not been invited to any meetings. It won't look good if the USA is not listening.

[beernut1] 24/3/2024 09:18

Morning Habshan
Let’s hope we get sorted
It’s seems to be just a few weeks away continually scrolling on through years
Don’t think I’ll believe it when I hear it’s ( sorted).
Gla

[habshan] 24/3/2024 08:54

beernut - "Talks of new ICG pipeline towards end"

Just to confirm and clarify, the talk of the pipeline is the opinion of LSE poster Senator_Mendoza.

[habshan] 24/3/2024 08:37

"Anyone subscribe to Meed. Can only get header.

Iraqi budget may mark new era in Kurdish relations."

Sorry beernut I can't get it either but from what we've read this morning the budget ammendment issue will be coming to a head this coming week (maybe):-

“Information on the arrival of the 2024 budget schedules to parliament next week,” Arif Al-Hammi told Euphrat News."

"Oil Minister Reveals Study of Important Budget Amendment to Resume Region’s Exports March 22, 2024."

This was Jon Harris's take on it last Thursday:-

"While there remains no defined timeline, we are actively engaging with government stakeholders to push for the restart of pipeline exports, the path forward appears to be linked to amending the Iraqi Budget to integrate a more accurate reflection of the production and transportation costs associated with the Kurdistan industry. We believe progress has been made. We continue to strongly emphasise that the current economics in our Production Sharing Contract must be preserved and have received contract sanctity assurances from the KRG."

So fingers crossed.

[beernut1] 24/3/2024 08:14

Anyone subscribe to Meed?
Can only get header

MEED Logo
Iraqi budget may mark new era in Kurdish relations
21 MARCH 2023 BY WIL CRISP


Erbil and Baghdad negotiators will have to tread carefully to continue making progress

[habshan] 24/3/2024 08:14

Highlander - "Thats what the delay has been IMO they want the Kurds to use this repaired SOMO pipeline."

Personally I think it's because as with any pipeline between Iraq and Turkey it goes through Kurdistan at Fishkabour and they need the Kurds approval to use it.

And that approval will not be forthcoming until the Kurds can export their own oil.

And having now decided that the pipeline won't be ready for another 2 months maybe the ICG think the situation will be resolved within that time frame.

Anyway, let's see.

[beernut1] 24/3/2024 08:05

With various agendas up his sleeve, Iraqi PM to embark on first visit to Washington
Report
Breaking
Washington
Iraqi PM
Muhammad Shia Al-Sudani
With various agendas up his sleeve, Iraqi PM to embark on first visit to Washington
2024-03-23 21:08


Font
Shafaq News / Iraqi Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, is poised to embark on a significant diplomatic journey as he prepares for a pivotal meeting with President Joe Biden in Washington on April 15th.
This high-level encounter marks a crucial crossroad in bilateral relations between Iraq and the US. It signifies Prime Minister Al-Sudani's inaugural visit to the United States since assuming office in October 2022, highlighting the importance of this engagement in shaping a new era of cooperation and partnership between the two nations.
The White House announced, "On April 15th, President Joe Biden will welcome the Iraqi Prime Minister to the White House to coordinate on shared priorities and strengthen the robust bilateral partnership between the US and Iraq."
"They will reaffirm their commitment to the Strategic Framework Agreement and work towards deepening their shared vision for a secure, sovereign, prosperous, and fully integrated Iraq in the broader region."
The statement highlighted that "President Biden and Prime Minister Al-Sudani will consult on a range of issues during the visit, including the shared commitment to the enduring defeat of ISIS and the evolution of the military mission after nearly a decade since the formation of the successful Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS.
Additionally, "they will discuss ongoing Iraqi financial reforms to enhance economic development and progress towards Iraq's energy independence and modernization."
AGREEMENTS TO COMPENSATE FOR THE WITHDRAWAL
In this context, Iraqi Parliament Foreign Relations Committee member, Amer Al-Fayez, affirmed the significance of the visit in delineating the bilateral relations between Iraq and the United States, particularly amidst Iraq's call for the withdrawal of foreign forces.
Al-Fayez emphasized, "The US has shared interests with Iraq, and for the sake of safeguarding its interests, it will pursue bilateral agreements. The US aims to uphold its interests after its troop withdrawal from Iraq. Through the bilateral understandings and treaties to be negotiated with Al-Sudani, this objective can be maintained, aiding in the withdrawal of foreign forces from Iraq."
He further stated, "While the Gaza issue may be addressed during the visit, it will not be the focal point. The primary aim is to enhance bilateral relations and chart a course between Iraq and the US. When Iraq decided to remove foreign forces, it reaffirmed its sovereignty."
AL-SUDANI’S VISIT CARRIES SEVERAL AGENDAS
Dr. Abbas Al-Jubouri, Director of Al-Rafid Center for Media and Strategic Studies, stated, "The visit of the Iraqi Prime Minister to the US holds various dimensions. It marks the Prime Minister's first visit since assuming office, and it will address several important and challenging issues."
Al-Jubouri clarified to Shafaq News Agency that "one of these issues is the presence of American troops in Iraq and determining a withdrawal timeline, as outlined by the committee formed about a month ago. Discussions will also encompass Iraqi funds deposited in the US Federal Reserve, along with bilateral relations, economic and trade exchanges."
"Additionally, there will be sessions for negotiations and the signing of several protocols between the Iraqi and US governments regarding oil extraction, investment, as well as vital and strategic projects."
HANDLING PRESSURES
Abdulsalam Barwari, a Kurdish politician and former member of the Kurdistan Parliament, emphasized the significance of the Iraqi Prime Minister's visit to the United States amidst current circumstances, highlighting the importance of understanding how to deal with pressures to withdraw US forces on one hand, and Iranian pressures on the other, while the US expresses a desire to contribute to the Iraqi economy.
Barwari elaborated That "the visit theoretically holds promise, but practically, the Prime Minister - and for the past three government heads - does not represent a significant bloc within the parliament, lacking influence among the parties tasked with forming the government."
He clarified, "These parties will demand stances that align with their loyalties and agendas. Therefore, there should be no blame on the Prime Minister if he fails to achieve significant results for Iraq. Nevertheless, it is an important visit and a positive signal from the US that the Iraqi government is a friend."
He indicated that "the visit will reaffirm - as customary - the continuation of dialogues and meetings, the commitment of the United States to Iraq's security and its assistance in combating terrorism, as well as the US efforts for a strong Iraqi government to aid its citizens and fulfill their aspirations. Discussions will also touch upon the presence of American forces and the necessity of ongoing dialogue, the plight of the Iraqi dinar, US measures, and sanctions against certain banks."
The bilateral relationship between Iraq and the United States is multifaceted, reflecting a complex history marked by significant shifts and evolving dynamics. Since the 2003 US-led invasion that resulted in the removal of Saddam Hussein's regime, the relationship has traversed various phases characterized by both cooperation and challenges.
There has been a notable transition towards cooperation in recent years, particularly in critical areas such as security, counterterrorism, and economic development.
Economically, the US remains an influential partner for Iraq, with trade and investment playing pivotal roles in bilateral ties. Additionally, American assistance in infrastructure development, healthcare, and education highlights the depth of engagement between the two nations.
However, challenges persist, including issues related to Iraqi sovereignty, the presence of US military forces, and divergent foreign policy agendas. Domestic political dynamics in both countries further influence the trajectory of the relationship.
Notwithstanding occasional tensions and divergences, Iraq and the United States continue to engage in diplomatic dialogue and cooperation, aiming to address shared challenges while managing differences effectively.
This nuanced approach reflects the complexity of their relationship and the ongoing efforts to foster mutual understanding and collaboration.
Observers maintain that the United States stands as Iraq's foremost strategic ally. Hence, there is a national interest in solidifying ties with the US. However, this necessitates clearly defined terms to avert ambiguity that might lead to deviations from stated positions.

[highlander7] 24/3/2024 08:02

Thats what the delay has been IMO they want the Kurds to use this repaired SOMO pipeline.

[habshan] 24/3/2024 08:02

Good work luckyclicker.

If you click on the link there is a section on the right hand side of the page "Recent Posts" where the Iraqi Oil Minister says:-

"Oil Minister Reveals Study of Important Budget Amendment to Resume Region’s Exports March 22, 2024."

Fingers crossed.

[beernut1] 24/3/2024 07:54

From Lse

Iraq Revives Kirkuk-Mosul-Turkey Pipeline to Replace KRG's Oil Export Route23 Mar 2024 18:40
Found on:



Source: "Kurdistan Watch" (not sure what the political bias of this outfit is, any ideas?)

Text:

"Iraq Revives Kirkuk-Mosul-Turkey Pipeline to Replace KRG's Oil Export Route

The Iraqi Oil Ministry is reportedly currently working on restoring the Kirkuk-Mosul-Turkey oil pipeline, with expectations of completing the project within the next two months -- intended to replace the KRG pipeline -- and has the capacity to transport over one million barrels of oil per day.

The pipeline system consists of two separate lines: a 40-inch line and a 46-inch line, both possessing the combined capacity to transport 1.6 million barrels of oil per day.

The pipeline route will originate from the Kirkuk oil field (K1) and Talward, proceeding to the Riyadh district of Hawija, then to Beji, and subsequently to Fatja, Mosul, and finally reaching the MS station in western Zakho. Employees of the Northern Oil Company who are present there will monitor and measure the oil shipments twice daily.

Iraq will be obligated to pay a fee to Turkey for each barrel of oil exported per an agreement amended in 2003, stipulating a fee of 70 cents per barrel if the export volume surpassed 400,000 barrels, and 112 cents per barrel if the export volume fell below 200,000 barrels."

[luckyclicker] 24/3/2024 07:41

https://search4dinar.wordpress.com/2024/03/22/parliamentary-law-2024-budget-schedules-arrive-in-parliament-next-week/

[luckyclicker] 24/3/2024 07:41

"Information on the arrival of the 2024 budget schedules to parliament next week," Arif Al-Hammi told Euphrat News.He pointed out that "the information indicated that the Ministry of Finance has completed the preparation of the schedules and will be sent to the Parliamentary Finance Committee and the House of Representatives during the next week."On March 13, the Ministry of Finance announced the completion of the data related to the 2024 budget schedules and the inclusion of the texts and their sending them to the Council of Ministers.Raghad Dahham

[habshan] 24/3/2024 06:34

10 days ago - Shafaq News/ A source in the North Oil Company, owned by the Iraqi government, revealed on Wednesday that the process of repairing the Iraqi-Turkish line has been completed by 100% while indicating that the pumping operations depend on government instructions related to resuming exports from the Kirkuk fields to the port of Ceyhan.

Yesterday - The Iraqi Oil Ministry is reportedly currently working on restoring the Kirkuk-Turkey oil pipeline, with expectations of completing the project within the next two months.

So 10 days ago that pipeline was 100% ready and awaiting government insructions to start exporting.

Now we are told that it won't be ready for two months.

Why the change of mind.

If the pipeline was ready 10 days ago and the Turks say that their section has been ready and waiting since last October, then why hasn't Baghdad given the instruction.

What or who is preventing the export of oil through that newly refurbished pipeline from Kirkuk to Ceyhan (via Kurdistan).

[habshan] 24/3/2024 05:46

"Janab said that nine out of 14 oil fields are currently operating in the Kurdistan Region and they have produced over 45 million barrels of oil since April 2023. Of that, 11.8 million barrels went to Baghdad between June 25 and December 1, 2023.

“Of the 11.8 million barrels sent to Iraq, the cost of production and transportation of a single barrel was not paid by Iraq. They took it all for free, so we stopped it,” he said."

"So we stopped it."

3 months ago the Kurds stopped oil going from Kurdistan to Iraq because they weren't happy.

They can stop oil going through Kurdistan from Iraq to Turkey as well.

[habshan] 24/3/2024 05:16

No doubt Sudani will be grilled and pressured over the pipeline during these discussions.

A couple of weeks after Sudani's visit to Washington Erdogan will be visiting Baghdad so fingers crossed.

Shafaq News - "With various agendas up his sleeve, Iraqi PM to embark on first visit to Washington.

Additionally, there will be sessions for negotiations and the signing of several protocols between the Iraqi and US governments regarding oil extraction, investment, as well as vital and strategic projects.

Economically, the US remains an influential partner for Iraq, with trade and investment playing pivotal roles in bilateral ties.

Observers maintain that the United States stands as Iraq's foremost strategic ally. Hence, there is a national interest in solidifying ties with the US."

[petebreeze37] 23/3/2024 22:07

Well this was not a secret, USA/deep state bombed Iraq and installed the puppets, so obviously deep state runs Iraq.

""The KRG finance minister said that Iraq is run by what he called “the deep state,” which makes the decisions while the politicians are not the “real actors,” but tools used to implement policies of the “deep state.”
The sooner deep state leaves Iraq the better. Let Iraq solve their own problems.

[justiceforthemany] 23/3/2024 21:11

It's all out there now. Lies called out in public. US buying oil from southern Iraq still 😲...must stop as must all foreign aid payments to GOI pending resumption.

[luckyclicker] 23/3/2024 20:34

APIKUR has conveyed to senior members of President Biden's administration and members of the U.S. Congress that the White House should not proceed with the planned visit of Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammad Shia Al-Sudani, on April 15, 2024, to Washington, DC unless:ITP is reopened and allows oil produced in the KRI to be exported to international marketsIOCs (including APIKUR members) get surety of payment for past and future oil exportsThe GoI fully implements the Iraqi federal budget for the KRG 

[luckyclicker] 23/3/2024 20:28

https://www.apikur.uk/publications/facts-and-stats-apikur-marks-1-year-anniversary-of-the-halt-of-oil-exports-through-the-iraq-tuerkiye-pipeline/

[luckyclicker] 23/3/2024 20:28

March 23, 2024 Key Points:The Iraq-Türkiye pipeline (ITP) has now been closed for one year The ITP closure impacts International Oil Companies (IOCs) in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), blocking 450,000 barrels per day of crude oil exportsContinued closure costs the Government of Iraq (GoI), Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), IOCs, and the people of Iraq billions of dollars As the 1-year mark for the halt of oil exports through ITP approaches, the Association of the Petroleum Industry of Kurdistan (APIKUR) provides an update on the reported status of the discussions around reopening the ITP, its efforts to restore full production and exports from Kurdistan, and the financial impacts on the Iraqi people and International Oil Companies (IOCs). On March 25, 2023, oil exports through ITP were halted. To date, neither APIKUR nor its members have seen any proposal from the GoI or KRG that would lead to a resumption of exports. All eight APIKUR member companies remain committed to their contracts with the KRG and have been repeatedly assured by the KRG that the KRG, for its part, is fully committed to these contracts as well. APIKUR continues to seek to engage with all relevant stakeholders to reach an agreement to resume exports via ITP. "APIKUR remains focused on working with all stakeholders to restore full oil production and exports through the Iraq-Türkiye Pipeline," said Myles B. Caggins III, spokesman for APIKUR. "Each day the pipeline is closed, losses continue to mount and the people, economy, and investment reputation of Iraq suffers."