Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – Iraqi Oil Minister Ihsan Abdul-Jabbar Ismail on Thursday stressed the importance of developing the Eridu oil field and investing in gas from the West Qurna/2 field, a statement said. release issued by the Oil Ministry.

The statement mentions that Ismail received LUKOIL Vice President for Central Asia, Middle East and North Africa, Stepan Gurzhiy, and his accompanying delegation to Baghdad.

The meeting focused on accelerating the development and production operations of the Eridu oilfield located in an exploration zone between the governorates of Muthanna and Dhi Qar, as this oilfield represents importance in improving the domestic oil production.

The statement said the Ministry of Petroleum is awaiting cabinet approval on the Eridu oilfield joint development program.

Ismail praised the technical development study prepared by LUKOIL in cooperation with the relevant Iraqi authorities, and expressed his hope that production will start in the coming period, according to the statement.

Ismail stressed the need to develop the West Qurna 2 oilfield, increase its production and work to improve economic indicators that serve the interests of both parties.

Ismail also indicated the importance of expanding the optimal investment projects for associated gas from the West Qurna 2 oilfield.

Ismail praised the cooperation and joint work between the Iraqi Ministry of Petroleum and LUKOIL to develop the petroleum and energy sector in the country.