Abu dhabi: Iraqi Oil Minister Bassem Mohammed Khudair announced that Iraq's total oil production capacity has surpassed 4.8 million barrels per day. This development is part of a strategic plan to enhance Iraq's oil and gas sectors. The agreements signed during Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi's visit to the United States are expected to boost oil production and generate employment opportunities.

According to Emirates News Agency, Khudair stated that Iraq is progressing towards achieving self-sufficiency in natural gas by 2030. The government is also engaged in productive discussions with OPEC to increase the country's oil exports. During the Al-Mashhad programme on Al-Iraqiya News, followed by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), Khudair revealed that Iraq had signed seven significant agreements in Washington during Al-Zaidi's visit.

The energy-sector contracts signed in Washington are valued at approximately $200 billion. These contracts are anticipated to create jobs, enhance Iraq's oil and gas reserves and production, and provide wider social benefits, including scholarship opportunities. Currently, 22 international companies are actively operating in Iraq's oil fields.

Khudair also mentioned that Iraq has attained self-sufficiency in gas oil (diesel) and kerosene, producing around 30 million liters of gasoline per day. However, he acknowledged the existing challenges in the country's fuel distribution mechanisms.

Regarding OPEC, Khudair emphasized Iraq's commitment to engaging in serious and constructive dialogue with the organization to increase its oil export quota. He stressed the government's dedication to ensuring Iraq receives its rightful export share while considering the exceptional circumstances the country has faced due to wars and infrastructure destruction.