Türkiye Initiates Talks with Iraq for Expanded Energy Agreement

Türkiye has initiated talks with Iraq to negotiate a new and expanded energy agreement.

The presidential decree, published in the Official Gazette, stated that the original agreement - which dates back to 1973 and was renewed in 2010 - along with all associated protocols, will terminate on July 27, 2026, The Caspian Post reports citing Turkish media.

The deal has long served as the legal framework for the Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline, a strategic corridor transporting Iraqi crude to the Turkish Mediterranean port of Ceyhan.

Over the years, the agreement has been revised several times to adapt to shifting geopolitical and technical dynamics. However, changing regional conditions, evolving energy markets and growing expectations on both sides have exposed the limitations of the current structure, prompting calls for a more modernized and comprehensive partnership.

According to the state-run Anadolu Agency, the envisioned new agreement aims to establish a far-reaching cooperation mechanism built on a shared strategic vision in the energy sector.

This includes long-term collaboration in crude oil and natural gas projects, the development of hydrocarbon fields, joint investments in petrochemicals and refining, and initiatives in electricity generation and transmission.