Iraq signed a new memorandum of understanding with Turkmenistan to strengthen energy cooperation and Baghdad expands natural gas imports. The deal reflects Baghdad’s strategy to diversify energy sources and reduce dependence on a single supplier.
According to the Iraqi Foreign Ministry, the agreement came during the fourth round of political consultations in Baghdad. Deputy Foreign Minister Mohammed Hussein Bahr al-Uloom and Turkmen Deputy Foreign Minister Ahmed Gurbanov led the talks. They also discussed expanding cooperation in trade, investment, transportation, and culture.
The new gas MoU aims to enhance Iraq’s electricity supply by adding new import routes and building stronger energy infrastructure. This step also helps Iraq move away from reliance on Iranian gas and toward a more balanced energy portfolio.
Earlier this year, Iraq sought approval from the United States to import 20 million cubic meters of gas per day from Turkmenistan. However, negotiations slowed due to concerns about the Iranian transit route and possible US sanctions. In response, Iraq hosted an Iranian delegation in September to discuss logistics and solve debt issues linked to energy transit.
Both nations agreed to boost diplomatic cooperation through frequent high-level meetings. They also plan to reopen embassies in Baghdad and Ashgabat to facilitate stronger bilateral ties.
The session concluded with a joint commitment to put the agreements into action and develop a long-term strategic partnership. Iraqi officials described the cooperation with Turkmenistan as an essential part of Iraq’s national energy diversification strategy.
With this deal, Baghdad expands regional energy cooperation while pursuing stability and sustainability in its electricity sector. The MoU marks another milestone in Iraq’s broader efforts to secure reliable energy for its growing economy.