Baghdad: Iraq and Syria on Tuesday engaged in discussions to revive the Kirkuk-Baniyas oil pipeline, which has been inactive for nearly two decades, according to a statement from the Iraqi prime minister's office. The discussions took place during a meeting in Baghdad between Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and Syrian Energy Minister Mohammad al-Bashir.

According to Anadolu Agency, the statement highlighted that the meeting focused on the prospects for bilateral relations and methods to enhance cooperation, particularly in the energy sector. Both parties are interested in reviving the Kirkuk-Baniyas oil pipeline through the formation of a joint technical committee. This committee is tasked with assessing the pipeline's condition and exploring options for its rehabilitation as part of efforts to diversify export outlets.

The Kirkuk-Baniyas pipeline, constructed in 1952, was designed to transport crude oil from Iraq's Kirkuk oil fields to Syria's Baniyas port on the Mediterranean. It has been out of service since 2003 following severe damage during the US invasion of Iraq and has remained unrepaired since.

The meeting also included discussions on opportunities to advance oil and petrochemical industries projects on the Mediterranean coast and explored coordination on climate change and water regulation in the Euphrates River Basin. Prime Minister al-Sudani reiterated Iraq's commitment to Syria's stability and sovereignty, emphasizing the importance of enhanced coordination to address shared challenges, including the ongoing aggression against Gaza.

Minister al-Bashir emphasized the depth of the bilateral relationship between Iraq and Syria, noting the potential for cooperation in energy, telecommunications, and investments. His visit to Baghdad, with its focus on energy and water resources projects, marks a significant step in fostering cooperation between the two countries.