ERBIL — The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) negotiating delegation is continuing talks with several oil production companies to resume oil exports from the Kurdistan Region.

The KRG has reaffirmed its commitment to a joint partnership with these companies and expressed Erbil's determination to restart oil exports. In a recent Council of Ministers meeting, the KRG reiterated its seriousness about resuming exports, and oil companies indicated their willingness to negotiate with Baghdad on any issues, including contract disputes.

Environmental expert Govand Sherwani commented on the companies' readiness to negotiate, noting, "The companies have shown a willingness to discuss all matters, which indirectly suggests they are open to talking about contracts,” as cited by Kurdistan 24.

The primary hurdles to resuming oil exports include legal disputes over contracts that Baghdad does not recognize and the financial entitlements of the companies. The KRG has suspended oil exports for over a year due to these issues.

Kosrat Miran Beg, a lawyer, highlighted that Article 111 of the Iraqi Constitution states that oil and gas are public property of all Iraqis. He noted, "The Kurdistan Regional Government has never rejected this issue, but the Iraqi government is not ready to send the financial rights of the Kurdistan Region to its people."

He added, "Despite these obstacles, the Iraqi government lacks a specific oil and gas law. The existing laws from 2005 are designed with a completely centralized mentality."

In a recent development, the KRG held a trilateral meeting with the Iraqi federal government and oil companies in Baghdad to address these challenges.