DUBAI, UAE - Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani on Wednesday met with Lorenzo Simonelli, chairman and CEO of the US-based oilfield services company Baker Hughes, to discuss expanding energy cooperation and advancing major gas projects in the country.

The meeting focused on Baker Hughes’ ongoing work in Iraq, including a key project to complete gas processing units at the Nasiriyah oil field. 

The facility, with a planned capacity of 200 million standard cubic feet per day, is expected to complete its first phase by summer 2026, with the second phase set for 2027.

Sudani reiterated his government’s commitment to supporting international energy firms operating in Iraq. 

He emphasized recent reforms aimed at improving the business climate and streamlining market entry for foreign investors.

Simonelli reaffirmed Baker Hughes’ long-term commitment to Iraq’s energy sector, noting the country’s strong potential for investment across various industries.

The meeting is part of Iraq’s broader strategy to boost energy infrastructure, reduce gas flaring, and attract global expertise to support its development goals.

Earlier in March, under the patronage of Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Affairs and Oil Minister Hayan Abdul Ghani, Iraq’s Oil Ministry initialed a contract with BP to redevelop four major oil fields in Kirkuk, namely Avana, Baba, Bai Hassan, and Khabbaz, along with the Jambur field. 

The agreement, signed by the state owned North Oil Company, also includes the rehabilitation and expansion of gas facilities. The initiative is aimed at increasing national production and supporting electricity generation through enhanced gas utilization.