Exclusive: Iraq to end all dollar cash withdrawals by Jan. 1, 2024, central-bank official says

[yota691]

Paying dues for Iranian gas exports causes a problem with America and threatens Iraq's electricity production

2023-06-02 08:49

 

Shafaq News/ The Electricity and Energy Committee in the Iraqi Parliament confirmed, on Friday, that the payment of financial dues for Iranian gas exports has become a political problem between Washington, Tehran and Iraq, and while it indicated that there is no alternative for Iraq for these exports in the short term, it called for the need to solve this obstacle The political process quickly, since Iranian gas is the fastest and most suitable in terms of quality and price for Iraq.

 

Committee member Dakhil Radi told Shafaq News agency, "The current production of electric power ranges from 18.5 to 19 thousand megawatts per day, but there are obstacles in delivering Iranian gas dues through the Iraqi Trade Bank, and this is a major problem."

 

 

He explained, "Iran supplies Iraq with the required amount of gas for a price, and this price is set by the Ministry of Electricity in the Iraqi Trade Bank, but the problem is in the transfer process, so the sums do not reach Iran," noting that "Iranian gas has turned into a political problem between the United States." Iran and Iraq."

 

He stressed, "Iraq needs 28-30 thousand megawatts, but if Iranian gas is available, it is expected that production will reach 22-23 thousand megawatts, and this percentage covers a sufficient area in all provinces with processing from 16 to 18 hours per day," expressing his hope solve the gas problem in the near future.

 

A member of the Electricity Committee called for "solving the problem of Iranian gas in a political and rapid manner, given that there is no alternative to Iranian gas for the country in the short term, and all countries that supply the country with gas are supplied by ships, while Iranian gas arrives through pipelines, so it is the fastest and most appropriate." In terms of quality and price."

 

On the other hand, Radhi pointed out, "There are memorandums of understanding and contracts with companies in more than one Iraqi province regarding solar energy investment and energy purchase from neighboring countries. The government is trying to sustain electric current for all provinces, even if it is at a rate of 16-18 operating hours per day."

 

And he indicated, "The stations that were under maintenance have been completed and entered service, and now supply the national grid with energy, as it was days before the opening of stations and entered the national system."

 

Rady stressed, "The prime minister has a special interest in the issue of energy, both parts of renewable energy (clean energy), and also with regard to gas and steam stations, energy purchases, and transmission and distribution lines."

 

On Saturday, May 13, Iranian Oil Minister Javad Oji announced the extension of two contracts related to his country's gas exports to two power stations in the capital Baghdad and Basra Governorate, based on an agreement between Iran and Iraq.

 

Iraq relies heavily on Iranian gas imports to feed the electricity grid, as the country generates about 14 thousand megawatts from the local network, in addition to nearly four thousand additional megawatts through importing gas and energy.

 

Iraq is the main importer of more than 80 percent of Iran's electricity exports over the past few years, according to previous data from the Iranian Ministry of Energy.

 

Iraq has been suffering from chronic electricity shortages for decades as a result of the blockade and successive wars. Residents have been protesting for many years against the frequent power outages, especially in the summer, when temperatures sometimes reach 50 degrees Celsius.

 

Iraq is in talks with Gulf countries, led by Saudi Arabia, to import electricity from them by linking its organization with the Gulf system, after it had relied on Iran alone during the past years by importing 1,200 megawatts, as well as gas fuel to feed local electric power stations.

 

Iraq also intends to import electricity from Jordan and Turkey, in an effort by Baghdad to fill the shortage until power stations are built that are able to meet domestic consumption.

[yota691]

Iraq asks America to solve the problem of financial dues to Iran for gas and electricity exports

2023-06-09 06:32

 

Shafaq News/ The Iraqi government asked the United States of America to solve the problem of financial dues to Iran for its gas and electricity exports to Iraq.

 

And the Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a statement today, Friday, that the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Fouad Hussein, met yesterday, Thursday, 8/6/2023, with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, on the sidelines of the ministerial meeting of the International Coalition against ISIS, which is taking place in Riyadh.

 

The statement added that during the meeting, they discussed various aspects of bilateral relations between Baghdad and Washington, and ways of cooperation in various fields, and the minister stressed the importance of continuing joint work and cooperation within the "strategic framework agreement for the relationship of friendship and cooperation between the Republic of Iraq and the United States of America," appreciating the efforts of the United States. Leader of the international coalition in the fight against the terrorist organization Daesh.

 

The two sides discussed a range of bilateral, regional and global issues, and discussed Iraq's efforts to boost its economy and achieve energy independence, according to the statement.

 

The two ministers also discussed a number of regional and international issues of common concern, stressing the need to work to reduce tension, achieve calm in the region, and avoid escalation that will not serve any party.

 

In another aspect of the dialogue, the two ministers discussed the financial dues of the Iranian government to Iraq due to the purchase of gas and electricity from the Islamic Republic of Iran, and how to deal with the US measures against international banks, including Iraqi banks, as these measures are within the framework of the US sanctions policy on Iran.

 

The Deputy Prime Minister stressed the need to find a solution to this problem, as it directly affects the electrical sector in Iraq, and from this standpoint, he thanked the American side for allowing the issue of financial payments to Iranian pilgrims and from Iranian money in Iraqi banks to be resolved.

 

For his part, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken affirmed that the United States is committed to supporting the stability of Iraq and the democratic process in it, and supports political stability, communication and joint action between the federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government in a way that enhances the status and strength of Iraq in the region, hoping to reach understandings to solve outstanding problems between the two parties, especially in The oil and financial field.

 

On Saturday, May 13, Iranian Oil Minister Javad Oji announced the extension of two contracts related to his country's gas exports to two power stations in the capital Baghdad and Basra Governorate, based on an agreement between Iran and Iraq.

 

Iraq relies heavily on Iranian gas imports to feed the electricity grid, as the country generates about 14 thousand megawatts from the local network, in addition to nearly four thousand additional megawatts through importing gas and energy.

 

Iraq is the main importer of more than 80 percent of Iran's electricity exports over the past few years, according to previous data from the Iranian Ministry of Energy.

 

Iraq has been suffering from chronic electricity shortages for decades as a result of the blockade and successive wars. Residents have been protesting for many years against the frequent power outages, especially in the summer, when temperatures sometimes reach 50 degrees Celsius.

 

Iraq is in talks with Gulf countries, led by Saudi Arabia, to import electricity from them by linking its organization with the Gulf system, after it had relied on Iran alone during the past years by importing 1,200 megawatts, as well as gas fuel to feed local electric power stations.

 

Iraq also intends to import electricity from Jordan and Turkey, in an effort by Baghdad to fill the shortage until power stations are built that are able to meet domestic consumption.

[yota691]

Iraq pays the costs of the Iranian pilgrims from their account in the Trade Bank of Iraq

A US-Iraqi meeting to discuss economic issues

 

money and business
   

Economy News - Baghdad
Deputy Prime Minister Fuad Hussein discussed with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken the financial dues of the Iranian government on Iraq due to the purchase of gas and electricity.

 

A government statement, seen by Al-Iqtisad News, said that the two ministers discussed the financial dues of the Iranian government to Iraq due to the purchase of gas and electricity from the Islamic Republic of Iran and how to deal with the American measures on international banks, including Iraqi banks, as these measures are within the framework of the sanctions policy. America on Iran.

 

The Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister stressed the need to find a solution to this problem, as it directly affects the electrical sector in Iraq. From this standpoint, he thanked the US side for allowing the issue of financial payments to Iranian pilgrims and from Iranian money in Iraqi banks to be resolved.

 

Iran has an account in the Trade Bank of Iraq, to put their money from selling electricity and gas to Iraq, which the government refuses to transfer due to US sanctions on the Iranian side.

 

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Views 122

Added 06/09/2023 - 4:08 PM

[ronscarpa]

Iran has an account in the Trade Bank of Iraq, to put their money from selling electricity and gas to Iraq, which the government refuses to transfer due to US sanctions on the Iranian side.

 

The US needs to back off it's stance on Iranian sanctions in this case. Iran is providing a critical service to Iraq and meeting their need, and we should back off for humanitarian reasons first and foremost, if for no other reasons..! JMHO..! RON 

[dinarham]

The USA is still holding Iraq gold  . No mention is ever made about the 5 US semis that it took to clear out all the Iraqi gold ,which we did immediately after  Saddam's statue was toppled . There is no clear evidence as to what happened to that gold , buried on some super secret location ,and not at Fort Knox . Allegedly , these funds were to go to the DFI , the Development Fund of Iraq  . What part of that is war booty ? While it is understandable that US sanctions of Iran included them not using USD for any transactions , it looks like we shot ourselves in the foot over that one . No worries , you crazy diamonds , our patience and belief will pay off .

[yota691]

Iraq achieves advanced results regarding financial dues with Iran

• Time: 06/10/2023 14:43:11
•  
• Read: 585 times

  

{Politics: Al Furat News} The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed today, Saturday, that Minister Fuad Hussein has achieved advanced results regarding financial dues with Iran.

This was stated by the Ministry's spokesman, Ahmed Al-Sahhaf, in a statement, which Al-Furat News received a copy of.

During the past week, Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein discussed, with his American counterpart, Anthony Blinken, the financial dues of the Iranian government on Iraq due to the purchase of gas and electricity.

[yota691]

Iraq Gets U.S. Approval To Clear $2.76 Billion Gas Debt To Iran

By ZeroHedge - Jun 12, 2023, 9:00 AM CDT

• Iraq has been given a sanctions waiver by the U.S., allowing it to release $2.76 billion of Iranian funds from gas export payments, according to Yahya Al-e Eshaq, Chairman of the Iran-Iraq Joint Chamber of Commerce.
• These funds are expected to meet the demands of the Central Bank of Iran and ensure the purchase of necessary goods, which may help stabilize the foreign exchange market.
• This development follows recent "proximity talks" between Iranian and U.S. negotiators in Oman, suggesting potential deescalation and future discussions on a new nuclear agreement.

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The Iran-Iraq Joint Chamber of Commerce Chairman, Yahya Al-e Eshaq, announced on June 10 that Iraq has released $2.76 billion worth of Iranian funds in gas export money owed by Baghdad. Iraq received a sanctions waiver from the US to make the payment.

According to an unnamed foreign ministry official that spoke with Reuters, Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein got the clearance to make the payment from US State Secretary Antony Blinken on the sidelines of the Riyadh Conference on Thursday.

Eshaq told Iranian media on Saturday that the released funds will meet the Central Bank of Iran (CBI) demands and ensure the purchase of goods needed in the country. He added that the funds could significantly help stabilize the foreign exchange market.

"Part of Iran’s blocked funds in Iraq has been earmarked for hajj pilgrims, and portions have been used for basic goods," the Iranian trade official told local media.

 

In April, Eshaq said that Tehran and Baghdad had "found several solutions to receive our debt from the Central Bank of Iraq, so Iraq’s outstanding payments to Iran will be cleared gradually within the next three to five months."

The US green light to release the money comes following reports that Iranian and US negotiators recently held "proximity talks" in the Omani capital Muscat, with Omani officials going between them and passing messages.

According to the sources, the talks aimed to deescalate tensions as a basis for future talks on a new nuclear agreement between the parties.

In 2015 Iran and several world powers, including the US, signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which placed significant restrictions on Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief.

Washington withdrew from the deal in 2018 and launched a "maximum pressure" sanctions campaign against the Islamic Republic.

After months of talks between Iran and the remaining signatories of the JCPOA, last September — under heavy Israeli pressure — the US put an end to any hope of reviving the deal.

Since then, Iran has restored ties with Saudi Arabia under a Chinese-brokered deal and is reportedly working alongside Gulf countries to form a "naval alliance" to protect the northern Indian Ocean.

Earlier this week, Iranian media reported that $24 billion of Iran’s frozen assets would soon be released from Iraq and South Korea.

 

Due to the sanctions on Iran, Iraq is only allowed to receive Iranian energy imports and pay for them via waivers that extend up to 120 days, a policy implemented by former US president Donald Trump and kept in place by Biden. The sanctions have also hampered Iraq’s payments for imports, putting it in heavy arrears.

By Zerohedge.com

[yota691]

Economists: Paying off Iranian debts enhances confidence in trade and the continuation of gas supply

Economical  2023/06/14

 

 

 Baghdad: Shukran Al-Fatlawi

Economic specialists believe that paying part of the Iranian debt owed by Iraq contributes to strengthening confidence in trade between the two countries and continuing to supply the gas used in power stations, especially as the country is on the verge of heat waves.
Yesterday, the media expert of the Iraqi Trade Bank, Aqeel Al-Shuwaili, announced the release of part of the frozen Iranian assets, while confirming that this process took place according to the mechanism agreed upon between Iraq, Iran and the United States.
For his part, economist Dr. Nabil Al-Marsoumi told Al-Sabah that an amount of two billion and 700 million dollars was released as part of Iraq's debts after the agreement with the United States of America to pay gas and electricity dues from the Iranian side, which exceeded 11 billion euros.
He added that this matter will not have a long-term impact on the exchange rate of the local currency against the dollar, unless the obstacles that prevent the transfer of US dollars through banking channels to pay Iran's dues are lifted, especially with regard to Iraq's imports of Iranian goods that annually exceed 10 tons. Billions of dollars.
He added that if a specific mechanism is agreed upon to pay the dues of Iranian merchants, it is certain that the exchange rate of the dollar against the dinar will witness a significant decrease, and this time it will approach the parallel exchange rate in an actual and real way.
In turn, the financial expert, Dr. Silwan Al-Nuri, told Al-Sabah: The release of Iraqi debts to the Iranian side does not affect the exchange rate directly, realizing that its effects extend to other service and commodity sectors, in addition to the main factor, which is supplying Iraq with gas that generates electric power, especially since the country is on the verge of on free waves.
He added that the repercussions of this will also extend to strengthening relations between the two countries and restoring the factor of trust, and thus creating an atmosphere of positivity in dealings.  
The head of the Iranian-Iraqi Joint Chamber of Commerce, Yahya Al-Ishaq, said in a press statement that the Iraqi government’s release of $2.7 billion in Iranian funds frozen due to US sanctions led to an improvement in the Iranian rial in recent days, on the back of positive news about negotiations. The Iranian nuclear file and lifting part of
the sanctions.
And he indicated that part of that released money was allocated for the costs of Iranian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia, while the other part was allocated for the purchase of basic commodities.
And the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that its Minister, Fuad Hussein, led a meaningful dialogue with his American counterpart, Anthony Blinken, which led to substantial arrangements regarding financial dues between Iraq and Iran.

Edited by: Ali Mouafaq

[yota691]

Economists: Two benefits accrue from the payment of Iranian debts by Iraq

2023.06.14 - 09:28

 

Baghdad - people  

Specialists in economic affairs believe that paying part of the Iranian debt owed by Iraq contributes to strengthening confidence in trade between the two countries and continuing to supply the gas used in power stations, especially as the country is on the verge of heat waves.  

 

  

Yesterday, the media expert of the Iraqi Trade Bank, Aqeel Al-Shuwaili, announced the release of part of the frozen Iranian assets, while confirming that this process took place according to the mechanism agreed upon between Iraq, Iran and the United States.  

  

For his part, the economist, Nabil Al-Marsoumi, explained that an amount of two billion and 700 million dollars was released as part of Iraq's debts after the agreement with the United States of America to pay gas and electricity dues from the Iranian side, which exceeded 11 billion euros.  

  

He added that this matter will not have a long-term impact on the exchange rate of the local currency against the dollar, unless the obstacles that prevent the transfer of US dollars through banking channels to pay Iran's dues are lifted, especially with regard to Iraq's imports of Iranian goods that annually exceed 10. Billions of dollars.  

  

He added that if a specific mechanism is agreed upon to pay the dues of Iranian merchants, it is certain that the exchange rate of the dollar against the dinar will witness a significant decrease, and this time it will approach the parallel exchange rate in an actual and real way.  

  

In turn, the financial expert, Silwan Al-Nouri, said: The release of Iraqi debts to the Iranian side does not affect the exchange rate directly, realizing that its effects extend to other service and commodity sectors, in addition to the main factor, which is supplying Iraq with gas that generates electric power, especially as the country is on the verge of heat waves.  

  

He added that the repercussions of this will also extend to strengthening relations between the two countries and restoring the factor of trust, and thus creating an atmosphere of positivity in dealings.   

  

The head of the Iranian-Iraqi Joint Chamber of Commerce, Yahya Al-Ishaq, said in a press statement that the Iraqi government’s release of $2.7 billion in Iranian funds frozen due to US sanctions led to an improvement in the Iranian rial in recent days, on the back of positive news about negotiations. The Iranian nuclear file and lifting part of the sanctions.  

  

And he indicated that part of that released money was allocated for the costs of Iranian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia, while the other part was allocated for the purchase of basic commodities.  

  

And the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that its Minister, Fuad Hussein, led a meaningful dialogue with his American counterpart, Anthony Blinken, which led to substantial arrangements regarding financial dues between Iraq and Iran.  

  

"The Official Gazette"  

[yota691]

The Minister of Electricity announces the payment of all gas debts to Iran

---

12:20  2023-06-17  57  Economy 0

Today, Saturday, Electricity Minister Ziyad Fadel announced the transfer of all Iranian gas debts.

Fadel said in a televised statement, followed by "Al-Mutalaa": "We currently produce 24,000 megawatts, an increase of 22% over last year, and 20 years ago, the electricity problem was not addressed due to the lack of benefit of previous plans."

He added, "We have developed two urgent and strategic plans to treat electricity and benefit from all production units," noting that "the decline in Iranian gas flows has reduced energy production by about 2,000 megawatts."

Fadel pointed out that "the Prime Minister directed the formation of special teams to find out the reasons for the extinguishments at the beginning and end of the month," revealing that "officials in many sectors were exempted after their negligence and extortion were proven, and there is the authority of the ministry within the budget to deliver energy to all regions, regardless of the number of their residents."

The Iraqi Minister of Electricity confirmed that: "Securing 24-hour energy requires the production of 34,000 megawatts per day."

[yota691]

Resumption of negotiations with Iran to pay gas dues

The first  2023/06/21

 

 

 Baghdad: Muhannad Abdel Wahhab

 

Representatives announced that officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Electricity are following up the file of payment of gas dues from the Iranian side to operate Iraqi electric power stations.

 

"The dues owed by Iraq to purchase gas were marred by some difficulties in payment, and the foreign and electricity ministries are discussing overcoming these complications with the Iranian side," said Bahaa al-Nouri, a spokesman for the Parliamentary State of Law bloc.

 

Al-Nouri added, to "Al-Sabah" that "there is coordination with the Iranian side regarding these allocated funds, and therefore they are receivables owed by Iraq to import gas to operate electric stations, which is less expensive and appropriate, and this issue will be resolved through the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Electricity."

 

Whereas, a member of the Parliamentary Electricity and Energy Committee, Bassem Al-Gharibawi, said, "There is an importance to Iranian gas for operating electric power stations. Gas costs Iraq annually about 10 trillion dinars, and therefore we are obligated to pay for the continuity of gas supply and the continuity of electricity."

 

Al-Gharibawi explained to "Al-Sabah" that "any slight stoppage in the supply of Iranian gas will plunge the country into an electricity crisis.

 

Therefore, we seek to solve the crisis of providing gas in addition to investing the gas of Akkas and Mansouriya in order to provide gas for the electric stations so that we can obtain part of self-sufficiency," noting that "Parliament supports the solution of all problems with neighboring countries, because we, as a country, are part of the international environment, and we must support communication, relations and common interests, and give priority to the interests of our country over other interests."

Edited by: Ali Abdel-Khalek

[yota691]

Iraq resumes negotiations with Iran to pay gas dues

2023.06.21 - 09:51

 

Baghdad - people  

Representatives announced that officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Electricity are following up the file of payment of gas dues from the Iranian side to operate Iraqi electric power stations.  

 

"The dues owed by Iraq to purchase gas were marred by some difficulties in payment, and the foreign and electricity ministries are discussing overcoming these complications with the Iranian side," said Bahaa al-Nouri, a spokesman for the Parliamentary State of Law bloc.  

  

Al-Nouri added, "There is coordination with the Iranian side about these allocated funds, and therefore they are receivables owed by Iraq to import gas to operate electric stations, which is less costly and appropriate, and this issue will be resolved through the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Electricity."  

  

Whereas, a member of the Parliamentary Electricity and Energy Committee, Bassem Al-Gharibawi, said, "There is an importance to Iranian gas for operating electric power stations. Gas costs Iraq annually about 10 trillion dinars, and therefore we are obligated to pay for the continuity of gas supply and the continuity of electricity."  

  

Al-Gharibawi explained, "Any simple stoppage in the supply of Iranian gas will plunge the country into an electricity crisis. Therefore, we seek to solve the crisis of providing gas, in addition to investing Akkas and Mansouriya gas in order to provide gas for electric stations so that we can obtain part of self-sufficiency," noting that "Parliament is with a solution." All problems are with neighboring countries because we, as a country, are part of the international environment, and we must support communication, relations and common interests, and give priority to the interests of our country over other interests.  

  

"The Official Gazette"  

[yota691]

Iranian oil: Iraq paid off the gas debt in full

6 minutes ago

© AP Photo / Nabil al-Jourani /

 

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Iranian Deputy Oil Minister for Gas Affairs, Majid Chengi, announced today, Sunday, that the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity has paid Iran all debts related to Iranian gas.

And the international news agency "Tasnim" reported , on Sunday evening, that the Iranian official's statements came on the sidelines of the first conference to strengthen facilities and equipment for the production, transportation and distribution of natural gas in the country.

 

"The Iraqi Ministry of Electricity has paid all our dues for gas , and the debt is now zero, but sometimes problems occur in transferring money from the Iraqi TBI Bank to Iran," Majid Chengi confirmed.

 

In a related context, the Iranian Deputy Oil Minister for Gas Affairs, Majid Chengi, said that Turkey had requested an extension of the contract for importing gas from his country, pointing to the continuation of negotiations to extend this contract.

 

It is reported that Baghdad's debts amounted to more than $1.6 billion for Iranian gas and energy purchases alone, between 2019 and 2021.

 

In February 2019, the Central Bank of Iraq concluded an agreement with the Central Bank of Iran , allowing customers of both banks to open accounts in the two countries, and conduct their banking transactions in Iraqi dinars and euros.

 

In December 2022, Iran's Oil Minister, Javad Auchi, said: "Fortunately, last year and this year, we were able to obtain all the arrears related to gas exports to Iraq."

[ametad]

1.6 Billion, that’s the same amount as the Turkish penalty for exporting through the Kurdish Region without Bagdad. It’s almost like Erdogan paid Iran instead of Iraq brokering the deal to balance things between his neighbors. Purely a speculation, just my wild imagination. It will be interesting to see if oil starts flowing from Chyen.

[yota691]

The Ministry of Electricity announces the payment of all dues for Iranian gas

Iraq

21:51 - 2023-06-25

Today, Sunday, the Ministry of Electricity announced the payment of all dues for Iranian gas, while it indicated the importance of the Prime Minister's directives today during his inauguration of the first phase of projects to develop gas units operating in 8 power stations in Baghdad and the provinces, pointing out that it will contribute to solving problems faster.

"The prime minister instructed that the circle of powers be expanded in order to overcome red tape, accomplish work faster, and resolve citizens' complaints," said ministry spokesman Ahmed Musa, in a press statement.

He added, "The ministry had worked to create sectors and maintenance centers to cover the work area and increase the volume of work, and therefore today the Prime Minister's recommendations came to divide work shifts and increase maintenance centers to cover the size of areas within the sector of responsibility in order to reinforce what the ministry was founded on; and therefore we believe that solving problems will be faster ".

Regarding the file of Iranian gas dues, Musa confirmed that "the Ministry of Electricity has paid all its dues for the value of the supplied gas, and the paid funds are deposited in the Trust Fund with the Trade Bank of Iraq."

Today, Sunday, Prime Minister Muhammad Shayaa al-Sudani directed the Ministry of Electricity to continue work and redouble efforts during the current summer, while stressing the mobilization of maintenance teams to work 24 hours a day to address the defects that occur in power transformers. 

 

The media office of the Prime Minister said in a statement, "The Prime Minister, Muhammad Shia' al-Sudani, inaugurated today, via a video link in the building of the Ministry of Electricity, the first phase of projects to develop and raise the efficiency of the operating gas units, by operating 40 systems to cool the air entering the gas generating units." In eight power stations in Baghdad and the provinces," noting that "the units were equipped according to the contracts concluded with the German company Siemens, and the implementation was carried out by the General Company for Electric Power Production / Central Region." 

 

He added, "The turbine inlet air cooling systems will contribute to compensating the electrical energy losses from the units during the summer season due to the high temperatures, and will compensate for a lost capacity of 797 megawatts added to the production," noting that "the Prime Minister was briefed on the details of the work and the amount of electrical energy." equipped for the provinces. The Prime Minister praised "the ministry's cadres and staff, who completed the systems within a record period," directing "to continue to work and redouble efforts during the current summer season, and the significant rise in temperatures."

[yota691]

Tehran: Iraq has paid our gas export dues in the amount of ten billion dollars

---

16:00  2023-07-03  19  Economy 0

 

The head of the Iranian-Iraqi Chamber of Commerce, Yahya Al-Ishaq, said today, Monday, that Iraq has paid $10 billion in dues from Iran for gas exports.

The head of the Iranian-Iraqi Chamber of Commerce, Yahya Al-Ishaq, said today, Monday, that Iraq has paid $10 billion in dues to Iran from gas exports, stressing that this amount has been handed over to the Commercial Bank of Iraq, where these funds can be used in non-sanctioned cases such as the purchase of basic commodities and medicines.

According to the Iranian Tasnim Agency, Yahya Al-Ishaq said today at a meeting of the Iraqi-Iranian Chamber of Commerce: There is a golden opportunity to be present in the Iraqi market. The requirements of the two countries make the opportunity for commercial relations strategic and necessary for the two countries.

He added, "There is a potential to increase trade between the two countries to $20 billion in the next few years."

And he said: At the present time, trade relations between the two countries have exceeded the limits of 10 billion dollars, and this figure is expected to reach 10 to 11 billion dollars next year. Achieving this figure can be even without considering the export of gas, electricity and technical and engineering services.

And he said: The security situation in Iraq has improved, and although the population of this country is less than the population of Iran, it has twice the oil income of our country and is not considered a poor country.

And he added: In the next ten to fifteen years, Iraq will be the best country for investment in the region and has a comparative advantage for us.

And he stated that: “Iraq intends to invest 300 billion dollars in his country this year and next,” noting that 85% of this amount must be financed from abroad, and if Iran uses 10% of it, then this is a special opportunity.

He said: Investors can form joint unions to invest in Iraq, and joint unions can be formed between the economic actors of Iran, Iraq, and even a third country.

Al-Ishaq said: There is no objection to the private sector receiving its money from Iraq. Our demands from Iraq are mainly related to government institutions and demands for gas and electricity.

And he announced that “Iran’s request from Iraq amounts to about 10 billion dollars,” and said: This number is constantly increasing and decreasing.

He said: The Iraqi minister also supported Iran's request from Iraq for ten billion dollars and announced its delivery to the Commercial Bank of Iraq.

He added: It was agreed that these funds will be used for non-sanctionable issues such as basic commodities and medicines.

Last week, the Iranian deputy oil minister for gas affairs said that the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity had paid Iran all gas-related debts.

"The Iraqi Ministry of Electricity has paid all our dues for gas, and the debt is now zero, but sometimes problems occur in transferring money from the Iraqi TBI Bank to Iran," Majid Chengy said.

In his statements, the Iranian official did not mention the amount of frozen funds in Iraqi banks.

For his part, Ahmed Musa, spokesman for the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity, confirmed, on Monday, that his country had paid Iranian gas dues to Tehran and deposited them in the Trade Bank of Iraq.

He said, "The Ministry of Electricity has paid all dues owed by Iraq to Iran, which are dues for importing gas from it."

He added, "The dues were paid to the Iraqi Trade Bank in the Credit Fund, but the bank is finding difficulties in transferring them to the Iranian government because of the US sanctions."

[yota691]

warning of repercussions

Electricity crisis.. The framework calls for addressing America to release Iran's dues

2023.07.09 - 13:00

 

Baghdad - Nas  

On Sunday, the coordination framework warned against Washington using the electricity file politically, while calling on the government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to address the United States in this regard, with the aim of releasing Iranian gas dues.  

 

The framework said in a statement, which "NAS" received a copy of (July 9, 2023), that "the country is witnessing a crisis that is burdening the Iraqi citizen due to the lack of supply in electricity hours in light of the difficult climatic conditions and the high temperatures."  

  

He added, "After following up, investigating, and clarifying the reasons, the coordination framework calls on the Iraqi government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to contact the American side and push it to immediately release the financial dues resulting from the import of Iranian gas without delay or procrastination, and not to use this file politically to avoid its negative repercussions on the Iraqi citizen."  

[yota691]

The coordination framework calls on the government to address Washington regarding Iranian gas dues and not to use this file politically

• Time: 07/09/2023 12:48:39
•  
• Read: 1,157 times

  

{Political: Al Furat News} The coordination framework called on the American side not to use the file of Iranian gas supplied to power plants in Iraq as a political file.

 

The framework said in a statement, of which {Euphrates News} received a copy: "The country is witnessing a crisis that is burdening the Iraqi citizen because of the lack of supply in electricity hours in light of the difficult climatic conditions and the high temperatures."

 

He added, "After follow-up, investigation, and clarifying the reasons, the coordination framework calls on the Iraqi government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to contact the American side and push it to immediately release the financial dues resulting from the import of Iranian gas without delay or procrastination, and not to use this file politically to avoid its negative repercussions on the Iraqi citizen."

 

It is noteworthy that the Ministry of Electricity announced a significant decrease in the Iranian gas supplied to its power stations, and this negatively affected the processing hours for citizens.

[yota691]

The coordination framework throws the ball in America's court regarding the electricity crisis in Iraq

On Sunday, the coordination framework commented on the electricity crisis in Iraq, and called on the government to address the US side to release the Iranian gas import dues, and not to use the file politically.

The framework stated in a statement, "The country is witnessing a crisis that is burdening the Iraqi citizen due to the lack of supply in electricity hours in light of the difficult climatic conditions and the high temperatures."

 

He added, "After follow-up, investigation, and clarifying the reasons, the coordination framework calls on the Iraqi government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to contact the American side and push it to immediately release the financial dues resulting from the import of Iranian gas without delay or procrastination, and not to use this file politically to avoid its negative repercussions on the Iraqi citizen."

 

On June 26, 2023, a spokesman for the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity, Ahmed Musa, announced that all dues for Iranian gas had been paid, indicating that the paid funds had been deposited in the Trust Fund at the Trade Bank of Iraq.

[yota691]

Pro-Tehran parties urge the Iraqi government to communicate with Washington to solve the problem of Iranian gas dues

07-09-2023 | 15:12 Source : AFP

 

members of the coordinating meeting

 

On Sunday, the largest Iraqi political bloc called on the foreign ministry to communicate with the American side to urge it to release financial dues to Tehran that Iraq pays in return for importing gas from its neighbor Iran to secure essential electricity needs. 

 

And due to the US sanctions on Tehran, Baghdad cannot directly pay the dues for importing gas from Iran. Rather, Tehran should use that money to buy food or health commodities. But the mechanism is complex and there are often delays.

 

In order to force Baghdad to pay those dues, Iran has repeatedly cut off supplies necessary to operate power plants and cover a third of the gas needs of the country, which is rich in oil resources. 

 

In a statement on Sunday, the Coordination Framework, the largest political bloc in the Iraqi parliament and includes Shiite parties and forces loyal to Iran, including the political wings of factions in the Popular Mobilization Forces, said that the country is witnessing "a crisis that is burdening the Iraqi citizen due to the lack of supply in electricity hours in light of the difficult climatic conditions." and rising temperatures.”

 

The framework, according to the statement, asked the "Iraqi government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to contact the American side and charge it with the immediate release of the financial dues resulting from the import of Iranian gas without delay or procrastination, and not to use this file politically to avoid its negative repercussions on the Iraqi citizen."

 

In late June, a spokesman for the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity, Ahmed Musa, confirmed to AFP that his ministry had deposited its dues to the Iranian side in return for gas imports with the Trust Fund of the Iraqi Trade Bank, adding that the amount owed to Iran "is $11 billion." 

 

He explained that "the money that is paid to the Iranian side is paid through the Credit Fund of the Commercial Bank of Iraq. The one who carries out the transfers and the financial operation is the Commercial Bank of Iraq." 

 

And because of the US sanctions on Iran, the authorization for the payment of that money would have to be done through an American exception. On June 13, the United States, which rarely talks about this issue, confirmed that it had authorized the payment of part of the money, without disclosing the amount. 

 

US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said in a press conference at the time, "We have agreed to a financial transfer that is identical to the previously approved financial transfers, to allow Iran access to funds withheld in accounts in Iraq." 

 

 The file of gas and electricity is sensitive for Iraq, as very high temperatures hit most of its regions during the summer, and things get worse due to the frequent daily power outages, which increases street anger and sometimes sparks demonstrations in a country whose infrastructure is crumbling due to decades of conflicts and rampant corruption. 

 

In order to reduce its dependence on Iranian gas, the Iraqi authorities are considering diversifying their sources of gas and energy, such as imports from the Gulf, especially Qatar, and locally by exploiting gas associated with oil production, which is being flared and is a major source of pollution. 

 

[yota691]

The coordination framework throws the ball in America's court regarding the electricity crisis in Iraq

2023-07-09 05:48

Shafaq News/ The coordination framework commented, on Sunday, on the electricity crisis in Iraq, and called on the government to address the US side to release the Iranian gas import dues, and not to use the file politically.

 

In a statement received by Shafaq News agency, the framework stated, "The country is witnessing a crisis that is burdening the Iraqi citizen due to the lack of supply in electricity hours, in light of the difficult climatic conditions and the high temperatures."

 

He added, "After follow-up, investigation, and clarifying the reasons, the coordination framework calls on the Iraqi government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to contact the American side and push it to immediately release the financial dues resulting from the import of Iranian gas without delay or procrastination, and not to use this file politically to avoid its negative repercussions on the Iraqi citizen."

 

On June 26, 2023, a spokesman for the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity, Ahmed Musa, announced that all dues for Iranian gas had been paid, indicating that the paid funds had been deposited in the Trust Fund at the Trade Bank of Iraq.

[yota691]

and 'spoil the happiness' of her angels

Electricity blames Iranian gas for the loss of 5,800 megawatts

2023.07.10 - 11:10

 

Baghdad - Nas  

The Ministry of Electricity stated that its stations are ready to produce 26,000 megawatts, but it indicated the loss of 5,800 megawatts due to the lack of Iranian gas supplies to 20 million cubic meters, while stressing that Iraq needs during these times to 60 million cubic meters.  

 

The ministry's spokesman, Ahmed Musa, said, "The ministry's staff were happy with its performance and rapid plans that were implemented urgently, and its results were clearly evident through the hours of preparation."  

  

Musa added, "This happened as a result of a direct follow-up that took place from the Prime Minister, Muhammad Shia' al-Sudani, on the electricity file, in addition to the field tours conducted by the Minister of Electricity, Ziyad Fadel."  

  

He pointed out, "Iraq has reached unprecedented numbers in electricity production, with approximately 26,000 megawatts."  

  

Moussa explained, "These developments were reflected in tangible preparations for the citizens, and at the same time we undertook to increase the quotas of the governorates."  

  

And he added, "These efforts have been greatly affected by the supplied gas supply, which is a major and major problem that has always affected our work negatively."  

  

Moussa is surprised by "blaming the Ministry of Electricity, whether for the lack of supplied or national gas, but even if the competent bank is late in paying dues for the gas, some people blame the ministry."  

  

And he stated, "These factors, although we are not concerned with them, lead to a decline in electricity supply, because limiting production or stopping stations due to the scarcity of gas and fuel affects the hours of supply."  

  

Moussa explained, "Iranian gas releases have decreased from 45 million cubic meters to 20 million cubic meters, although Iraq needs 60 million cubic meters at these times."  

  

He stressed that this decline led to "turning off the Al-Sadr gas stations, Al-Mansuriya, the South Baghdad station, Al-Taji and Al-Rasheed stations, and determining the stations of Al-Khairat, Al-Haidariya, Al-Hilla gas, Al-Najaf, Al-Rumaila gas and Al-Rumaila investment stations, and stopping the Khor Al-Zubair station."  

  

Moussa continues, "5,800 megawatts went out of service in a very short time due to the lack of Iranian gas supplies."  

  

And he stressed, "The issue of the reason for the use of Iranian gas and the lack of sufficient Iraqi gas, these questions are not directed to the Ministry of Electricity, but rather directed to the sectoral side."  

  

Moussa noted, "The Iranian side cut off the gas because the funds did not reach it, even though the ministry paid all dues in full."  

  

And he warned, "It is a message that we deliver to the Iraqis that all the stations that are currently stopped have completed their maintenance and have been configured to operate at their full capacity since the first of June."  

  

Moussa added, "These stations are ready to operate as soon as the gas arrives, with a production capacity of 26,000 megawatts, because the system's generation has now fallen to 20,000 megawatts due to a lack of gas supplies."  

  

"Term"  

[yota691]

Parliamentary Energy: Dealing with the file of Iranian gas dues needs a longer period

• Time: 07/10/2023 14:59:19
•  
• Read: 650 times

  

{Politics: Al Furat News} The Parliamentary Energy Committee expected that the file of transferring Iran's dues and debts for gas supplied to power plants in Iraq would need a "longer period" to be dealt with.

A member of the committee, Tel Sahar, told {Euphrates News}: "The supply of electric power faces a number of sufferings, including high temperatures, and the interruption of Iranian gas supplies due to Iraq's failure to implement the financial dues of the Islamic Republic."
He added, "This file is old and has been around for years, and the Ministry of Electricity transferred money to Iran through the Trade Bank of Iraq, but the US sanctions prevent Iran from receiving those dues."
Sahar pointed out that "there is a preliminary agreement on the supply of goods and products as alternatives to that money, and that dealing with this file will need a longer period."
A few days ago, the Ministry of Electricity announced a significant decline in the gas supplied from Iran. This led to the shutdown of a number of power stations and an increase in the hours of power outages with a significant rise in temperatures and an increase in the domestic demand for energy.
And at the end of last June, the spokesman for the Ministry of Electricity, Ahmed Musa, confirmed that his ministry had deposited its dues to the Iranian side in exchange for gas imports with the Credit Fund of the Iraqi Trade Bank, adding that the amount due to Iran "is $11 billion."
He explained that "the money that is paid to the Iranian side is paid through the Credit Fund of the Commercial Bank of Iraq. The one who carries out the transfers and the financial operation is the Commercial Bank of Iraq."
Because of US sanctions on Iran, the payment of that money must be authorized through an American exception, and on June 13, the United States confirmed that it had authorized the payment of part of the money, without disclosing the amount.

Raghad Daham

[yota691]

Parliamentary accusations are chasing America: it is trying to thwart the government through the files of electricity and the dollar

• Today 15:39

Information / special.

Today, Monday, a member of the House of Representatives, Muhammad Karim, accused the United States of America of the electricity crisis, while stressing that Washington is trying to thwart the government through behind the crises.

 

In an interview with Al-Maalouma agency, Karim said, "America is trying to blackmail the Iraqi government with many files, most notably the dollar, Iranian gas, and the interventions of its ambassador in Baghdad," noting that "Washington has different crises in Iraq, to try to thwart the government."

He added, "The United States is the one who imposed gas electric stations on Iraq, in order to try to keep the country in constant need of them," pointing out that the latter "failed in the agreement to exclude Iraq from importing Iranian gas."

The member of the House of Representatives explained, "The Iraqi government has taken actual steps to invest in associated gas to reduce the import and achieve self-sufficiency," accusing the Washington administration of "disavowing all the solutions provided by Iraq to pay dues for Iranian gas."

And Karim said, "America thwarted Iraq's contracts with international companies to invest in associated gas."

Earlier, a member of the House of Representatives, Hussein Al-Sabri, pointed out to America the exacerbation of the electricity crisis in Iraq, and regarding the current crisis as a "great disappointment" for the Iraqi people.

With Iraq entering the height of the summer season in the current month of July, and the rise in temperatures exceeding half the boiling point, the electricity crisis was renewed due to the continuous outages and the failure to supply the country's regions with energy.

[yota691]

Parliamentary energy calls for the United States to keep the electricity file out of politics

2023-07-10 05:31

Shafaq News/ The Parliamentary "Electricity and Energy" Committee demanded, on Monday, the Iraqi government to pressure the United States of America to remove the energy file from political calculations.

 

The head of the Parliamentary Electricity and Energy Committee, Muhammad Nuri al-Abdarbah, said, in a statement received by Shafaq News Agency, that Iraq has fulfilled all its financial obligations, and all its money owed towards Iran, the neighboring country, from which we hope to look at the historical relations between the two countries, explaining that Iraq has fulfilled its obligations. Financial and that the root of the problem is the US sanctions.

 

He continued, so we call on the Iraqi government to take its role through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs by using diplomatic pressure on those countries for the purpose of distancing Iraq and the Iraqi people from their political differences, for which the Iraqi people pay the price. 

 

Yesterday, Sunday, the governing coordination framework in Iraq held the United States responsible for the electricity crisis, and called on the government to address the American side to release the Iranian gas import dues, and not to use the file politically.

 

On June 26, 2023, a spokesman for the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity, Ahmed Musa, announced that all dues for Iranian gas had been paid, indicating that the paid funds had been deposited in the Trust Fund at the Trade Bank of Iraq.

 

Residents have been protesting for many years against the frequent power outages, especially in the summer, when temperatures sometimes reach 50 degrees Celsius.