Iraq, Saudi Arabia sign 18 oil, energy deals

BAGHDAD, Dec 5 (KUNA) -- Iraq and Saudi Arabia signed Tuesday 18 cooperation agreements in oil and energy sectors, further promoting bilateral relations and cooperation between the two countries.
The agreements, signed on sidelines of Basra Oil and Energy Exhibition, contribute to expanding cooperation, Iraqi oil minister Jabbar Luaibi was quoted by a ministry statement as saying.
He said the agreements included investment, manufacturing, and importation of materials, infrastructure equipment and pipes, as well as technical and industrial services, and drilling of wells.
Saudi energy minister Khaled Al-Faleh said major Saudi companies would be opening branches in Iraq to expand level of investment in oil and gas.
He said cooperation with Iraq also contributed to unifying visions and positions at OPEC meetings. (end) ahh.bs