Under the supervision of Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) signed two major energy agreements worth an estimated $110 billion in gas and energy investments.
At an official ceremony, the Ministry of Natural Resources of the Kurdistan Regional Government signed two energy contracts with U.S. oil companies HKN Energy and Western Zagros. The agreements—valued at tens of billion dollars—are expected to have a substantial impact on advancing the Region’s oil, gas, and overall economic infrastructure.
During the signing between HKN Energy and Western Zagros, Steve Lutes, Deputy President of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, welcomed Prime Minister Masrour Barzani and his delegation to Washington, describing it as a “moment of great significance.”
He noted: “Prime Minister Barzani has deepened and broadened U.S.–Kurdistan ties.”
He emphasized that the Prime Minister’s leadership has strengthened commercial relations and that his previous visits to Washington demonstrated wise and strategic engagement that further bolstered ties between the Kurdistan Region and the United States.
Lutes added that the newly signed contracts represent “two powerful strategic agreements that reinforce the U.S.–Kurdistan partnership,” and that the value of the deals is projected to reach $110 billion.
Dr. Sabah Sobhi, a member of the Iraqi Parliament’s Oil and Gas Committee, told The Kurdish Globe: “These two agreements are of great importance to the Kurdistan Region, especially in terms of economic development. They are a source of relief for the people. Although the agreements were previously prepared, unfortunately a mindset in Baghdad blocked the Region from utilizing its natural resources.”
He praised Prime Minister Barzani’s “calculated and well-prepared” approach to securing the deal during his visit to the U.S., describing the agreements as a major foundation for strengthening Kurdistan’s economic infrastructure, especially in oil and gas.
He added: “This was a significant and strategic breakthrough. While the Iraqi government obstructs the implementation of Article 112 of the Constitution—regarding oil exports from Kurdistan—these U.S. investments restore trust and affirm the Region’s constitutional right under Articles 111 and 112 to manage its resources.”
Rashid Gayand, a legal and energy policy expert, stated: “We have court rulings confirming that the Kurdistan Region is constitutionally entitled to enter contracts independently, as a federal entity. These two companies—HKN Energy and Western Zagros—are major international firms with large-scale projects and geopolitical influence. These agreements are economically and politically stabilizing.”
Dr. Sabah continued: “The estimated $110 billion value makes these some of the largest gas deals ever projected in the Middle East.”
Bahram Gerdi, an oil and energy expert, told The Kurdish Globe: “With the leadership of Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, these two contracts were signed between the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Ministry of Natural Resources and two major U.S. oil firms—HKN Energy and Western Zagros. The value is around tens of billions of dollars, with significant impact on the Region’s energy sector and long-term economic structure.”
He added: “Kurdistan’s energy position is growing stronger. The new U.S. administration, unlike the previous one, is paying greater attention to Kurdistan and continues to support the Region—particularly in energy. Through this, Kurdistan can enter a new era. For years, natural gas has been a key strategic resource globally. If managed wisely, this could be a major breakthrough for its people.”
Gerdi emphasized: “Economically, this deal is vital for Kurdistan’s future. Exporting natural gas turns the Region into a key player between producers and global markets. Natural gas has become a pillar of foreign policy, and Kurdistan now has a voice in shaping that diplomacy.”
He said: “Fortunately, the Kurdistan Region is engaging smartly in this sector. Prime Minister Barzani’s invitation to Washington signals the U.S. administration’s recognition of Kurdistan as an emerging energy hub. With this, Iraq can move away from reliance on Iranian gas—which currently costs nearly $6 billion annually—and instead source power through Kurdish gas.”
Looking ahead, Gerdi confirmed: “According to the Natural Resources Minister, the overall projected value of these agreements could reach nearly $110 billion. This gives further weight to the Kurdistan–U.S. deals and positions Kurdistan as a future supplier for Europe, which seeks alternatives to Russian gas.”
He concluded: “Today, the Kurdistan Region is seen by the U.S. and Europe as one of the few viable alternatives to offset pressure from Russian dominance. European nations remain heavily dependent on gas for heating and electricity. Although efforts since 2023 have aimed to reduce imports, demand for natural gas remains high.”
Commenting on the strategic value of the two contracts, Gerdi stated: “Through these agreements with U.S. companies HKN Energy and Western Zagros, the KRG can influence the future of global gas markets. The Region’s energy policy under the current cabinet has aligned with U.S. strategy in the region, strengthening Kurdistan’s energy standing day by day.”
He concluded: “Kurdistan’s natural gas could become a new energy source for regional and international markets—helping fill existing gaps and ensuring economic security. These are not just contracts; they’re strategic positioning tools for the Region’s energy future.”
The Kurdish Globe