Exploration plans and activity in Iraq have picked up pace in recent weeks with the country’s revived Iraq National Oil Company (MEES, 17 September) sanctioning activities as part of the ministry of oil’s five-year plan.

INOC executive director (and deputy oil minister) Hamid Younes says Baghdad’s targets are to raise the country’s proven oil and gas reserves from the current 145bn barrels and 131tcf whilst identifying new blocks for development. Developing untapped gas reserves is a particular focus. (CONTINUED - 1659 WORDS)