ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The Association of the Petroleum Industry of Kurdistan (APIKUR) has dismissed recent claims suggesting that it holds Erbil responsible for the prolonged suspension of oil exports through the Iraq-Türkiye pipeline. In a statement released on social media, APIKUR rebuffed a commentary and tweet from Asharq Al-Awsat’s English-language platform (@aawsat_eng), calling the assertion inaccurate.
“APIKUR member companies appreciate Prime Minister Barzani and other KRG leaders’ vigorous public and private efforts to restore oil exports through the Iraq-Türkiye pipeline that will boost prosperity for all Iraqis,” APIKUR stated. The industry group also urged the public to follow its official handle (@apikur_oil) for accurate updates on the issue.
The dispute over oil exports stems from the March 2023 arbitration ruling by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), which led Türkiye to halt the transportation of Kurdish crude
through its Ceyhan port. Since then, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), has been negotiating with Baghdad to resume oil exports, which are vital for the Kurdistan Region’s economy and Iraq as well.
Despite these efforts, political and technical hurdles have hindered the process, causing frustration among energy companies operating in the Kurdistan Region. APIKUR has consistently advocated for a swift resolution, emphasizing that a restart of oil exports would benefit all parties involved, including the federal government in Baghdad.
With ongoing diplomatic engagements between the KRG, the Iraqi government, and Türkiye, stakeholders remain hopeful that a breakthrough will soon be reached, enabling the resumption of exports and stabilizing the region’s energy sector.
MILITIAMAN : Central Bank of Iraq - Negotiations in March - Digital Dinar - Important initiative to finance.
Highlights
Summary
In this video, the speaker addresses the audience on a Sunday afternoon, emphasizing the importance of the recent developments regarding the Iraqi economy, particularly the introduction of the digital dinar and financing for industrial projects. The speaker reflects on earlier discussions from mid-March about Iraq’s digital currency initiative,
which aims to support major industrial initiatives and attract large investors with a minimum investment of $250 million. The launch of Iraq’s digital dinar is anticipated to facilitate instant transactions, reduce reliance on physical currency, and improve financial accessibility for various segments of the population.
Furthermore, the central bank of Iraq is set to launch a major initiative to finance industrial projects, collaborating with the Trade Bank of Iraq and the Industrial Bank of Iraq. The speaker emphasizes the significance of this initiative as it represents a departure from the traditional tripartite budget, hinting at the need for an international currency to support new industrial endeavors. The discussion extends to the development road project, which will encompass agricultural and service projects along major transportation routes. The speaker expresses optimism about these developments and believes they are positioning Iraq for significant economic advancements, including increased trade partnerships with neighboring countries such as Syria and Iran.
🌐 Introduction of the digital dinar to enhance financial transactions in Iraq.
💰 Major initiative for financing industrial projects announced by Iraq’s central bank.
🔍 Focus on attracting large investors ($250 million or more) through improved financial support.
🚀 Development road project to promote agriculture and services alongside industrial cities.
🛣️ Potential trade benefits with neighboring countries as Iraq enhances its economic infrastructure.
🔄 Transition from physical currency to a sophisticated digital currency system.
🔒 Enhanced financial accessibility for various segments of society with digital services.
Key Insights
📈
Digital Dinar’s Role in Economic Recovery: The introduction of Iraq’s digital dinar is a crucial step in modernizing the financial system of the country. By allowing instant money transfers, it aims to streamline commerce and reduce the logistical burdens associated with traditional currency. This transition may also help stabilize the economy, as digital currencies can be less susceptible to physical disruptions and may enhance efficiency in transactions.
💼 Attracting Foreign Investment: The initiative to create a ‘single window’ for large investors signals Iraq’s commitment to drawing substantial foreign investment, particularly in industrial projects. The targeted amount of $250 million or more highlights the focus on significant projects that can drive economic transformation and job creation.
🏗️ Transformation Beyond Traditional Budgets: The launch of industrial projects will utilize funds beyond the traditional tripartite budget structure, indicating a more flexible approach to financing and economic development. This evolution is essential for Iraq to undertake large-scale initiatives that can lead to sustainable economic growth.
🌍 Regional Trade Expansion: The speaker mentions potential trade negotiations with Syria and Iran, which, if successful, could open new avenues for economic collaboration. Strengthening trade relations may provide Iraq with additional resources and markets for its industrial outputs, further boosting its economy.
📊 Comprehensive Development Strategy: The development road project encapsulates a broader vision for economic growth that includes agriculture and services. This all-encompassing approach not only aims at building physical infrastructure but also targets social development, creating employment opportunities and improving the standard of living for citizens.
⚡ Central Bank’s Forward-Thinking Strategies: The initiatives proposed by the central bank governor reflect a forward-thinking approach to Iraq’s economic challenges. By leveraging existing liquidity in cooperation with major banks, this strategy emphasizes efficient fund utilization to finance new industrial visions effectively.
🖥️ Integration of Technology in Financial Services: The transition to a digital currency system not only modernizes payments but also enhances transparency and accuracy in transactions. This technological shift can enable better data tracking and financial management, making it harder for corruption to persist in financial dealings.
Overall, the video discusses pivotal changes taking place in Iraq’s economy, driven by digital currency, industrial initiatives, and the cultivation of international relations. This multifaceted approach lays the groundwork for a potentially transformative period for Iraq, promoting financial stability and economic growth. The speaker encourages viewers to engage with the content and supports the community’s development through various platforms.
Al-Hakim: Iraqi factions are committed and do not want to embarrass the government.
3/29/2025
The leader of the Hikma Movement, Ammar al-Hakim, stated that the Iraqi armed factions are committed to not escalating with the United States and do not wish to embarrass the federal government in this regard. He described the formation of regions in the country at the present time as "inappropriate."
This came during his hosting of a discussion session on Saturday night, Friday, by the "Iraqi House Salon."
Al-Hakim said, "These factions were founded at specific times and played a role in confronting terrorism and liberating the land. We hold the Iraqi actor accountable for prioritizing the national interest in making decisions and taking positions based on the country's sovereignty."
He added, "Iraq, as a state, has its own mechanisms for cooperation and communication with countries in the region and the world, including the United States of America. Communication with countries in the region and the world is a source of strength for Iraq and its interests. The return of major foreign companies to Iraq is evidence of the understanding of countries in the region and the world of Iraq's reality and its promising future."
Regarding the situation in the region, Al-Hakim said, "There is overlap in the arenas between Iraq and the countries of the region, which highlights the region's need for stability in Syria. While we wish Syria stability, we renew our call for the inclusion of the various components of this country, while building good relations with Syria's neighbors and preserving the holy sites of Syria's components."
He pointed out that "the constitutional document raised concerns among countries in the region, including Iraq, and the events in the Sahel reinforced these fears."
Regarding the discussion of forming regions in Iraq, Al-Hakim considered the formation of regions "inappropriate at the present time, despite the constitutional reality of regions, with all due respect to those who make these calls, as they fall within the democratic reality of the country."
I can’t believe there hasn’t been more questions about the exchange rate. I know only a few know the rate, if any at all. I guess I wouldn’t dare ask what your thought are on this.
Hey Mes
I was surprised too! Only the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) knows the revaluation rate, so we’ll have to wait for their official announcement. If someone claims to know the rate, they’re just guessing. Think about it, how would they actually know?
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"I’m sure most people would turn in their currencies fairly quickly but do you have an idea of the time they give people to turn them in? Thank you!"Mtgeresa (
Great question! If the Iraqi Dinar (IQD) revalues (RV), the timeline for exchanging it would depend on the Iraqi CBI policy. Historically, currency revaluations or redenominations maybe 30 to 90 days to 12-18 months, to ensure smooth transitions an black-market issues. I’d monitor official statements from the Central Bank of Iraq for updates, they will give guidance on this.
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"We've been experiencing a lot of hype surrounding speculation posts of IQD on this platform. What are some credible sources and indicators of the Iraqi government's official actions and statements put out in terms of RV?"DrewWilliams (
I hear you, there’s a lot of noise around the IQD RV, and it’s smart to focus on credible info. I’d recommend sticking to official channels: the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) website for announcements, Iraq News for reliable reporting, and statements from Iraqi Prime al-Sudani or the Ministry of Finance. Key indicators to watch include CBI exchange rate policies, Avoid social media hype or clickbaiters unverified claims that are silly and they do not know when it will RV LOL. That is a very guarded secret -stick to primary sources for the real story.
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"AJ Appreciate the Q&A. When one has a foreign currency and it revalues, instead og going the traditional route. How does one find a broker, that may allow a better rate vs banks or others. Be Blessed!"David R (
Thank you for the kind words! When a foreign currency like the Iraqi Dinar (IQD) revalues, the rate will be set by the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI). This will differ from past RVs where countries issued lower denomination notes, as the CBI is introducing a digital dinar, a central bank digital currency (CBDC), that doesn’t trade on the forex market. They’ll likely set a fixed rate, which is a new twist not seen before, so you can’t gauge how the IQD will roll this out by looking at historical examples.
As for banks, the exchange spread will depend on the amount you hold, typically 1-3% or none, and you’ll be able to shop around for the best rate. The idea that people will be left behind is just silly fear-mongering and clickbait. You'll be fine.
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Vince Gallo (
Interesting perspective! I’m not saying it’s a conspiracy, but economic stability often favors established players IMF World Bank BIS. I Focus on credible data from the CBI and Iraq News to cut through speculation.
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John Romero (
"How about we do an anonymous survey on how much we are holding in IDQ. If that possible."
Hey John
I’d caution everyone to keep personal financial details private on SM platforms.
John Romero (
"What is the best way to prepare to exchange our IDQ currency? What financial institution should we use?"
Preparing to exchange IQD monitor official announcements from the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) for any RV confirmation, as I mentioned earlier. For exchanging, a Tier1 bank that exchanges currency onsite. DO NOT have it sent out to verify the authenticity of your dinar notes!
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Mark Laschinski (
A currency revaluation (RV) like the Iraqi Dinar’s could make sense for a few reasons. Iraq’s economy relies heavily on oil, and after decades of instability (wars, sanctions), the dinar’s value has been low, around 1,300 IQD to $1 USD as of recent. An RV could restore confidence in the currency, reduce transaction costs for international trade, and align it with economic growth if oil revenues stabilize -turkey pipelie. It could also combat inflation an black-market currency issues. I’d watch for official policies from the CBI, not speculation.
"One more. Seems like a lot of people go all in on risky bets. What percentage ~ of ur net worth excluding homes do u have invested in iqd ?"
My Reply:
Hey
I totally get the concern about risky bets, I don’t disclose personal investment percentages publicly, but I can say I approach the IQD like any other speculative asset: cautiously. I wouldn’t recommend going “all in” on any single currency, especially one with uncertainty, it’d be a small portion of your net worth—3% -5% - 10%, depending on your risk tolerance and diversification strategy. I’d focus on a balanced portfolio across stocks, Bonds, crypto, and commodities, as I’ve discussed in the past. Always diversify and do your own research!
FRANK26: "WITH ALL SINCERITY NOT AT 1310, THANK YOU".....F26
Iraqi Ambassador to Washington: A delegation representing more than 50 American companies will visit Iraq.
3/29/2025
The Iraqi Ambassador to Washington, Nizar Al-Khairallah, confirmed that a delegation representing more than 50 American companies will visit Iraq.
The Iraqi Embassy in Washington said in a post on the (x) platform: "Ambassador Al-Khairallah met with Steve Lutes, Vice President of the American Chamber of Commerce and President of the American-Iraqi Business Council and his deputies."
The ambassador stated that "the meeting focused on discussing the logistical arrangements for the upcoming visit of a delegation of American businessmen to Iraq, which will include representatives of more than 50 American companies specialized in the fields of energy, healthcare, education, transportation and other sectors.
