Al‑Zaidi: Iraq plans to boost oil supplies to Europe via Mediterranean

Baghdad intends to expand and diversify its oil export routes, including increasing supplies to Europe through the Mediterranean Sea, Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi stated at a joint press conference in Berlin with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Report informs via AFP.

"Iraq cannot remain dependent on a single route," the Prime Minister said, referring to the Strait of Hormuz, where traditional supply routes have been disrupted due to blockades amid Middle East conflicts.

Al‑Zaidi noted that he discussed Iraq's oil exports to Europe with Merz in Berlin and also raised the issue with French President Emmanuel Macron during his visit to Paris earlier this week.

According to him, Iraq could double oil exports via the Mediterranean, supplying both European countries and the United States. He also announced plans to increase national oil production to 10 million barrels per day, with a significant portion potentially directed to Europe and other Western states.

The Prime Minister added that Baghdad and Berlin plan to reach an agreement on Iraqi oil exports, with Iraq intending to purchase German technologies and equipment in return.

Merz, in turn, stated that German companies are already involved in energy projects in Iraq, and both countries plan to sign a cooperation agreement in the field of electricity supply.