Erbil, Kurdistan Region – The Association of the Petroleum Industry of Kurdistan (APIKUR) voiced support on Monday for ongoing negotiations between the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and the Iraqi federal government to resume oil exports through the Iraq-Turkey Pipeline (ITP). However, the group reiterated its firm stance on securing payment guarantees and honoring existing contracts.

In a statement, APIKUR welcomed the intensified discussions aimed at restarting oil exports, which have been halted since [previous suspension date, if applicable]. The group emphasized that any agreement must ensure payment certainty for international oil companies (IOCs) operating in the region, in line with their legally binding contracts.

On July 12, APIKUR member companies and other IOCs met with officials from both governments to discuss the resumption of exports. The companies expressed readiness to resume operations immediately—provided that binding agreements are finalized. These agreements must guarantee timely payments, either in cash or through "in-kind" oil transfers, and resolve outstanding arrears.

"APIKUR member companies stand ready to resume exports as soon as written agreements are executed that honor our existing contracts, which are governed by international law," said Myles B. Caggins III, APIKUR’s spokesperson. He stressed that the group has never agreed to any contract modifications and expects full compliance with original production-sharing agreements.

The ITP’s closure has strained the economies of both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, making a resolution critical for financial stability. While progress in talks has been noted, APIKUR’s conditions highlight lingering challenges in reconciling federal and regional oil policies.