Jordanian Senate President Faisal Fayez and Speaker of the Iraqi Council of Representatives Haibat Halbousi met in Amman to discuss advancing key energy projects, including the electricity interconnection project between the two countries. The discussions focused broadly on strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing cooperation across various sectors, particularly in economic, energy, and investment fields. Mr. Fayez stated that Jordanian-Iraqi relations are historic, deeply rooted, and based on mutual respect and shared interests. He affirmed Jordan’s unwavering commitment, under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II, to developing relations and building a sustainable strategic partnership across various sectors. The Senate President noted the importance of the approved Iraqi oil pipeline project through Jordan, noting it would provide Iraq with a new export route to international markets. Mr. Halbousi, leading a parliamentary delegation, showed the depth of bilateral relations and the keenness to enhance cooperation, emphasizing Iraq’s need to increase electricity imports from Jordan.
Advancing Strategic Energy Links
Discussions between the two nations centered on bilateral relations and the enhancement of cooperation across economic, energy, and investment sectors. Both sides deliberated on advancing the Iraqi oil pipeline project through Jordan, a venture deemed critical for regional energy dynamics. Jordanian Senate President Faisal Fayez noted the significance of the Iraqi oil pipeline project through Jordan, confirming its approval. He stated that the pipeline would establish a new export route for Iraq to international markets, offering a vital alternative for its crude oil exports. This project is expected to enhance economic cooperation and energy security for both nations, diversifying export options and strengthening regional infrastructure, thereby bolstering the long-term economic stability of both Jordan and Iraq.
Speaker of the Iraqi Council of Representatives Haibat Halbousi further emphasized the importance of the Basra-Aqaba oil pipeline project, describing it as a strategic option that benefits both Jordan and Iraq. This project, once realized, is expected to significantly enhance Iraq's energy export capabilities while providing Jordan with economic benefits and greater energy security. Mr. Halbousi also pointed to Iraq's requirement to increase electricity imports from Jordan, citing Jordan’s electricity surplus as a valuable resource that could help stabilize Iraq's power grid. These energy initiatives are central to deepening the strategic partnership between Amman and Baghdad, fostering greater interdependence and mutual prosperity. The officials acknowledged the substantial progress made in these discussions and expressed optimism for their timely implementation, recognizing the profound impact these projects will have on regional energy collaboration.
Jordan's Commitment to Partnership
Discussions between Jordanian and Iraqi officials included advancing the Iraqi oil pipeline project through Jordan, a project that has received official approval. Senate President Faisal Fayez affirmed Jordan’s commitment, under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II, to further developing relations with Iraq and building a sustainable strategic partnership. Mr. Fayez emphasized that the partnership spans various sectors, reflecting a mutual interest in strengthening bilateral ties and fostering long-term stability. He reiterated that the Iraqi oil pipeline project is a key component of this strategic collaboration, providing Iraq with a significant new export route to international markets. This project is expected to enhance economic cooperation and energy security for both nations, diversifying export options and strengthening regional infrastructure. The ongoing dialogue shows Jordan's dedication to fostering deep-rooted and stable relationships with its regional partners, particularly Iraq. The commitment extends to facilitating infrastructure projects that serve shared economic and strategic objectives, ensuring that both countries benefit from enhanced connectivity and resource sharing. Jordan views these energy projects not just as economic ventures but as cornerstones for a more integrated and resilient regional economy, promoting shared growth and stability across the Levant.
Iraqi Perspective on Cooperation
The meeting between Jordanian and Iraqi officials took place at Parliament on Monday. During the discussions, Speaker of the Iraqi Council of Representatives Haibat Halbousi stressed Iraq’s need to diversify its oil export outlets. This diversification is driven by challenges facing regional shipping lanes, which necessitate alternative routes for Iraqi crude to ensure uninterrupted access to global markets. Halbousi also underlined the importance of the electricity interconnection project between Jordan and Iraq, noting that they discussed advancing this vital initiative. The project is seen as key for Iraq's energy stability and for leveraging Jordan's electricity surplus, which can provide a reliable and consistent power supply to meet Iraq's growing demands. Mr. Halbousi noted Iraq's keen interest in increasing electricity imports from Jordan, recognizing the mutual benefits of such an arrangement. These energy initiatives are central to deepening the strategic partnership between Amman and Baghdad, creating a framework for sustained cooperation and economic growth. The Iraqi delegation emphasized that these projects represent a strategic investment in the future of bilateral relations, promising enduring benefits for both populations and contributing significantly to regional energy security and economic integration.
