WASHINGTON / RankWire.AI / – U.S. President Donald Trump and Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi held talks on broader economic and energy collaboration at the White House on Tuesday. Their focus was on oil, natural gas, electricity, trade, and private sector investment. Trump expressed the United States’ intention to pursue numerous commercial agreements with Iraq, including deals related to crude oil production. Neither side disclosed contract values, project timelines, nor a comprehensive list of finalized agreements. This meeting was the main highlight of al-Zaidi’s official visit to Washington.
Al-Zaidi was accompanied by ministers, senior officials, and business representatives for discussions spanning five economic sectors. Iraqi officials highlighted energy, transport, technology, healthcare, and education as key topics. Baghdad has instructed its oil, electricity, and communications ministries to prioritize qualified American firms. The Iraqi government also explored banking and insurance reforms with U.S. financial institutions and business groups. Officials described the visit as a move toward establishing practical commercial ties between Iraq and the United States.
Energy talks focused on plans to boost crude oil output and develop natural gas resources for domestic consumption. Iraq aims to attract investments in power generation and grid expansion, as ongoing supply shortages are a significant public concern. The cabinet approved an agreement with U.S.-based HKN Energy for the development of the Himreen oilfield in northern Iraq. It also authorized the Electricity Ministry to conclude a broad cooperation pact with General Electric, covering electricity production, grid capacity, and transmission infrastructure.
Energy Projects Drive Investment Conversations
Chevron has engaged with Iraqi authorities regarding major upstream projects, including the West Qurna 2 oilfield. Earlier this year, Baghdad replaced Russia’s Lukoil as the operator of the field. Iraqi officials have also held talks with Exxon Mobil, HKN Energy, and other U.S. companies. Al-Zaidi stated that his government plans to significantly increase oil production within three years. Iraq possesses substantial crude reserves and remains a founding member of OPEC. Any production increase must align with the OPEC+ supply framework applicable to Iraq.
At the White House, al-Zaidi emphasized Iraq’s desire for a fair OPEC production share and reaffirmed its commitment to remain within the group. He linked this request to Iraq’s reconstruction needs following years of conflict with the Islamic State. Al-Zaidi estimated the damage at over $400 billion, with some displaced Iraqis still lacking permanent homes. Oil revenue remains vital for funding public services, reconstruction, and government spending. As such, the Iraqi government prioritized oil and gas investment within its economic agenda during the Washington visit.
Iraq Develops New Export Routes for Crude Oil
Iraq is also progressing with alternative crude export pathways. The Oil Ministry signed a preliminary agreement with a U.S.-Qatari consortium to conduct feasibility studies on the Kirkuk-Baniyas pipeline. This proposed route would extend from oilfields near Kirkuk to Syria’s Mediterranean coast. Additionally, Iraq has initiated the Basra-Haditha pipeline project, which aims for a capacity of 2.5 million barrels per day. These initiatives are part of Iraq’s comprehensive energy infrastructure development plan.
The discussions in Washington also extended beyond energy, covering cooperation in communications, technology, transportation, and broader infrastructure projects. Iraqi officials noted that the delegation met with U.S. government representatives, financial institutions, and corporate leaders during the visit. Both nations underscored economic cooperation as a vital aspect of their bilateral relationship. While public statements confirmed ongoing negotiations, they did not specify final terms for all projects currently under discussion.