The new oil export pipeline from the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) area is almost complete and is expected to be operational by the end of the year,” Dr Hawrami was quoted as telling the British Conservative Party conference in Manchester on 2 October.

The 300,000 b/d oil pipeline linking the Khurmala Dome with Fishkabur on the Turkish border is understood to be just 3km short of completion. Dr Hawrami’s reference to the pipeline being “operational” within the next few months suggests the KRG may be planning to proceed with independent exports rather than wait for a settlement with Baghdad. (CONTINUED - 1391 WORDS)