US Pushes Iraq to Boost Crude Exports to Turkey

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US Energy Secretary Rick Perry pressed Iraq`s new government Tuesday to boost crude production and exports north to Turkey. as the US considers extending Baghdad`s sanctions waiver. allowing it to import Iranian natural gas.

In a readout of the Baghdad meeting. the Department of Energy suggested that an extension of the waiver may be tied to Iraq`s ability to increase crude exports `to levels not seen since 2017.` DOE did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Perry told the Iraqi leaders that the US is `serious about its desire to help make Iraq energy independent. however. further steps are needed to improve the business climate and reduce the malign influence of Iran.` DOE said. The US pushed Iraq to significantly increase crude exports. increase domestic electricity generation and decrease natural gas flaring.

DOE said Perry `reiterated that it is a priority of the US government to make this happen and we stand ready to offer our assistance in achieving this goal.`

The US granted Baghdad a waiver last month allowing it to import natural gas and electricity from Iran in the face of chronic power shortages. especially in the oil-rich province of Basra in the south. The waiver expires December 18.

US sanctions against Iran`s oil customers went back into force November 5. with Iraq receiving relief for electricity imports. while eight other countries including China and India secured permission to keep importing Iranian crude at reduced levels.

While rolling out the sanctions and waivers last month. the State Department touted Iraq as one of four countries — along with the US. Saudi Arabia and Russia — that were pumping oil at record levels.

Perry met with Iraq`s President Barham Salih. Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi. oil minister Thamir Ghadhban. and electricity minister Luay al-Khatteeb. It was the first visit to Iraq by a member of President Donald Trump`s cabinet. and only the second such visit since Trump took office.