Iraq Secures Turkmen Gas to Boost Electricity Generation

BAGHDAD: Iraq has reached a significant agreement with Turkmenistan to import 20 million cubic meters of gas daily, a move aimed at enhancing the fuel supply for its electricity generation stations. The Iraqi Ministry of Electricity announced the deal on Saturday, underscoring its importance in diversifying Iraq's energy sources. According to Kuwait News Agency, the agreement was signed by Iraqi Electricity Minister Ziad Ali and Turkmenistan's Minister of State and Head of the Gas Company, Makhset Babayev. Babayev traveled to Iraq to finalize the deal, which appoints Swiss company Loxstone Energy to facilitate the transportation of gas to Iraq through a swap mechanism utilizing Iran's gas pipeline network. The agreement is the result of over a year of intensive technical efforts, encompassing numerous meetings and reciprocal visits by officials from both nations. This collaboration reflects Iraq's ongoing strategy to reduce its reliance on Iranian gas, which currently plays a crucial role in powering the co untry's electricity stations. The new supply from Turkmenistan is intended to mitigate any potential disruptions in Iranian gas supplies. Iraq's pursuit of alternative gas sources highlights its commitment to ensuring a stable and sufficient energy supply for its electricity infrastructure. This agreement not only strengthens bilateral relations between Iraq and Turkmenistan but also marks a step forward in Iraq's broader energy diversification efforts.