Baghdad, Iraq – Iraqi Oil Minister Hayyan Abdul Ghani revealed on Saturday that negotiations are ongoing with the American company Chevron. Chevron is operating the West Qurna 2 oil field in Basra province, following the withdrawal of the Russian company Lukoil from the field due to international sanctions on the Russian energy sector.
The minister, who also serves as deputy prime minister, explained that discussions with Chevron are ongoing to reach a clear operational agreement. He noted that Basra Oil Company, the Iraqi partner in the field, has not yet officially taken over operations from the Russian company.
The West Qurna-2 field is Lukoil’s largest asset outside Russia. The company’s withdrawal has opened the door for major US oil companies such as Chevron and ExxonMobil. These companies are competing to operate the field and contribute to securing global energy supplies from southern Iraq.
These statements coincide with the opening of the 11th Iraq Energy Exhibition and Conference by Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani at the Baghdad International Fairgrounds. More than 450 local, Arab, and international companies are participating to discuss the future of energy and investment in the country.
