Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani is the Prime Minister of Iraq, discussing critical developments in his country. He asserts that US troops are no longer needed, signaling a major shift following the defeat of ISIS. Al-Sudani also examines the enhanced capabilities of Iraqi security forces. The conversation delves into Iraq's strategic role within OPEC and its oil production challenges, including the troubled Iraqi-Turkish pipeline. Al-Sudani outlines plans to resume oil exports and the importance of regional relationships with Iran and the United States.
Iraq's Prime Minister announced the country's shift from reliance on US troops to establishing bilateral security agreements, highlighting improved local military capabilities against Daesh.
The Prime Minister emphasized Iraq's commitment to OPEC production levels while pursuing resolution of legal disputes to boost oil exports and production capacity.
Deep dives
The Shift from Coalition to Bilateral Agreements in Iraq
Iraq's Prime Minister, Mohammad Shia al-Sudani, emphasized the country's transition from relying on international coalitions for security to establishing bilateral agreements with other nations. This shift is based on the assessment that the justifications for the coalition's mission have ended, as Iraq has significantly reduced the threat posed by Daesh. The Prime Minister explained that while certain operations against Daesh still occur, it reflects the capability of Iraqi security forces rather than a resurgence of the group. He asserted that Iraq’s ongoing discussions with coalition partners aim to develop a sustainable security relationship that respects Iraqi sovereignty.
Iraq's Commitment to OPEC and Oil Production Challenges
The Prime Minister addressed Iraq's commitment to OPEC decisions, stating that the country is working to balance oil production levels while adhering to voluntary cuts. He described the resumption of oil exports through a pipeline to Turkey as a crucial step after its prolonged closure due to legal disputes and budgetary issues. Iraq aims to resolve outstanding legal conflicts related to oil contracts in the Kurdistan region to enhance production capacity. The Prime Minister expressed optimism about reaching a solution in collaboration with oil companies and regional partners before the end of the year.
Iraq’s prime minister said US troops are no longer needed in his country because they have largely succeeded in vanquishing ISIS, and he plans to announce a timetable for their withdrawal soon. Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani speaks with Bloomberg's Joumanna Bercetche