Iraq Pushes Oil Expansion in New York Talks with ExxonMobil, HKN Energy

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Falih al-Zaidi has been meeting with US energy executives in New York to push for increased oil production and investment. Al-Zaidi met separately with ExxonMobil CEO Darren Woods and HKN Energy Chairman Ross Perot as part of his visit to the United Nations General Assembly.

The talks centered on raising crude production and enhancing the use of Iraq's oil resources, with Baghdad hoping for increased participation from foreign energy corporations that can contribute investment, technology, and technical experience to the industry. Al-Zaidi called for more action on projects aimed at increasing oil output and said that his administration will seek to overcome barriers that may cause delays in execution.

The Iraqi leader also announced plans to hold a Baghdad Energy Conference to promote new exploration blocks as investment prospects for foreign oil and gas businesses. This move highlights Baghdad's drive to attract more foreign investments into its energy sector, increase production capacity, and establish commercial connections with big US businesses.